Reasons and Methods for continuing education as an adult
It’s been said that life is about living. In addition, life is about learning, life is about happiness and life is about love. Despite these seemingly different opinions, the basic premise is the same. Life is about continuing on in all aspects of our lives. This includes education.
As one goes through elementary school, does anyone really appreciate the lessons on proper grammar? Or – as one goes through high school, does anyone really understand what mathematical concepts mean?
Yet – as adults go through life, we must correspond with the IRS, other individuals, real estate brokers and our managers at work. In adult life, one must balance a checkbook, create a budget, fill out 401K forms and plan for retirement. So – all of the “life is about” sayings combine and become true for anyone.
Just because someone turns 18 and becomes a legal adult does not mean that the 18 year old has the wisdom of life and the knowledge of a sage. Instead, an 18 year old is just starting the learning process. This process never really ends.
Given that individuals rarely retire before the age of 65, a 30 year old should feel excited about new opportunities. A 40 year old should embrace a career change and a 50 year old should anxiously anticipate a minimum of 15 years in their chosen career before a minimum retirement age.
Life is about utilizing all the “things” we’ve learned to date. However, unless one continues to learn and increase knowledge, the “things” become stagnant. Adult education, whether formal or informal becomes a key. Formal education for adults has become increasingly convenient. Many universities target adults for their continuing education classes, which mean they make their classes convenient and affordable for adults.
Even if an adult is not interested in pursuing a doctorate degree or anything extreme in terms of education, additional classes and education are imperative to growth. A hairdresser needs to know basic accounting principles – an actor needs to know basic marketing skills – and any adult needs to know retirement planning.
As one grows older, the wisdom of ages becomes increasingly important. Younger individuals may depend upon their physical beauty or youthfulness to bring money into their coffers. But – only individuals who accept that youth eventually fades and realizes that knowledge brings long-term comfort will be prepared for the ages. No one is ready for old age without increasing education and continual information.
