Stressed Out by the Tech Flood? Here's How I Approach Learning New Stuff
By Maurilio AmorimI love technology. I hate technology. Both are true in my life.
Yesterday I tried for 45 minutes to mint an NFT. It didn't work. While it wasn't my fault (OpenSea.io had a glitch), I lost almost an hour on something that should have taken seconds.
Technology used to be something that was studied in school by geeks and nerds. Now, technology is embedded in every single part of our lives. And the more you want to accomplish, the more technology seems to play a significant role.
Are you overwhelmed with the amount of new stuff you must learn just to keep up with the pace?
Well, you're not alone. I get it. I'm often trying to catch up myself. Here's how I deal with the never-ending tech learning cycle:
Prioritize your learning:
You can't learn all the new cool tech. And you shouldn't! Focus on what is most relevant to your career, industry, or personal interests. By concentrating on what truly matters to you, you can allocate your time and resources more efficiently.
Set SMART goals:
Establish Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound (SMART) goals for your learning journey. This approach will make your objectives more manageable and help you stay motivated. What do you need to learn in the next six months? Do you want to understand and own crypto? Do you like to learn how to create a digital funnel? (BTW, I can help you with that!)
Identify your learning style:
Determine which learning methods work best for you: online courses, hands-on workshops, or traditional books. Select resources that cater to your preferred learning style for a more enjoyable experience. I love to watch someone do it, jump in the deep end, and try it myself.
Connect with a community:
Seek out like-minded individuals who share your interests. Engaging with others in online forums, social media groups, and local meetups can provide valuable insights and support. YouTube, Facebook Groups, and Discord Servers are great places to find like-minded people to help you get where you need to go.
Practice regularly:
Consistent practice is essential for mastering new technology. Allocate time to hone your skills and learn from any mistakes during the process. There's no better teacher than practice. You do it and find out what you got right and what didn't work. The next time you have a much better result. Keep doing it until you become an expert. In technology, becoming an expert sometimes is just a matter of weeks!
Maintain curiosity and an open mind:
Approach new technology with an open mind and a sense of curiosity. Exploring different aspects of the tech world will expand your knowledge and enhance your adaptability. Play. Break things. Discover. A curious mind is the best type of mind.
Acknowledge your accomplishments:
Celebrate milestones and progress, no matter how small. Recognizing achievements can provide motivation and maintain enthusiasm for learning. I remember getting my first digital wallet and buying Bitcoin. It was small, but I celebrated by drinking with friends and saying, "I'm a web3 expert now!" Even though I was barely a novice.
Navigating the ever-evolving world of technology can be challenging, but with the right mindset and a focused approach, you can master new information and technology with confidence.
By applying these practical tips, you'll find yourself better equipped to stay up-to-date and make the most of the tech advancements that come your way.
And keep making a difference!