The Joys of Learning Something New

This week marks the one year anniversary of The Lifestyle Notes. As I was reflecting on this last year of building and growing my blog, it got me thinking about the benefits and joys of learning something new as an adult.

But first, a little backstory. As a reader of blogs for many years, I had always secretly loved the idea of starting my own blog. It would be something that was just mine - a place to be creative, to share my thoughts and passions, and to help others. For several years the idea percolated. Yet there was always this little voice in the back of my head, reminding me that I had no idea how to start a blog, that my tech skills were surely lacking, and who would want to read it, anyway?? Also, I have no time as a busy working mom. I mean, obviously, this would be a bad idea.

However, this little persistent 'what if' would always be there too, pushing it's way into my thoughts. So I started doing a little research. I started reading about how to start a blog and I took copious notes. I went down the Google rabbit hole looking for articles, videos, and IG accounts on the topic. After a few months I decided I was going to do it. I only told my (very supportive) husband, and no one else. I created an account on WordPress, bought a domain name and theme, and the rest is blogging history.

The months that followed were full of challenges, frustrations, feelings of not being good enough (hello, imposter syndrome), and pure JOY. Learning something so completely new to me was transformative. It really was. And that joy buoyed me along and kept me focused on my goal. Now here we are, one year later. I still have A LOT to learn, but I look forward to the learning every day. This blog is my fourth baby, and I'm proud of her.

With that said, I'm going to share some of the benefits of learning something new as an adult. It's my hope that sharing my story will provide some inspiration for others, those who might also have that persistent little voice in the back of their mind. Go for it - I promise you won't regret it.

Four Benefits of Learning Something New As an Adult

ONE: Learning something new promotes a sense of purpose. Having a sense of purpose inspires you to work hard to achieve your goals. It brings with it an intrinsic motivation - doing something because you WANT to, not because you have to. Having a purpose also inspires a sense of contentment and well-being. I was able to find the time (mostly nights after the kids were in bed, or on weekends) because I had a sense of purpose.

TWO: Learning something new encourages making time for YOU. As a mom, the days can get monotonous. Keeping these tiny humans alive and well while working, maintaining a home, trying to get exercise, sleep, eat well - all the things. It's a lot. It's all important, but so is feeling like you are working toward something that is just for you. Learning something new can bring a feeling of joy, excitement and happiness to your days. For me, it was a form of self-care in a way.

THREE: Learning something new is good for your brain. When we learn something new, our brain forms new connections and neurons. This ability that our brains have to change is known as 'plasticity.' As we age, this new learning can help to keep our brains strong and fluid. This also helps to counteract the negative effects that aging, stress and disease can have on our brain. Think of learning something new as a workout for your brain, if you will.

FOUR: Learning something new can help others. Learning something new will not only benefit you, it can help others as well. Helping others, whether over the internet or within your family or community, can promote feelings of connection, belonging, self-confidence and self-esteem. One of my main goals in starting this blog was to inspire others, especially busy moms, to live their healthiest and happiest lives.

Those are the benefits and joys that I felt from learning something new. Have you thought about learning something new as an adult? Let me know below, I'd love to hear.

For more, check out this post with five of the best self-care tips for moms. (Spoiler alert: one is learning something new!)

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