Do you want to keep your mind sharp and working, grow a bit as a person, gain the power that knowledge affords? Then do this: Learn something new. Whether taking up a new hobby (baking, gardening, rock climbing, salsa dancing) or acquiring a new skill (learning a new language, taking a defensive driving course, how to drywall a house, playing the banjo), it will enhance you mentally, emotionally and even physically.

  • It can change your way of thinking. Say you learn something contrary to what you may have believed, something that shocks you because it challenges a core belief you’ve always held. Learning those facts gives a perspective you never had before and may make you empathetic to others you might have dismissed before. As creatures of habit, we tend to look at things based on our personal preferences and points of view; learning about the other side can break us out of belief ruts and encourage us to learn even more.
  • It opens you to other people. If you choose to take that Italian course you’ve put off, you may make a new friend whom you can practice with. You may also get the opportunity to learn about a new culture and speak with a group of people you never could have before. That will encourage you to travel and see new sights. Taking up something new can have a positive ripple effect on your interactions with others.
  • It boosts your self-esteem. A friend had an interest in learning how to bake bread. When she came across a bread-baking cookbook that seemed fairly easy, she bought it on a whim and made her first loaf. Ten years later, it’s still the family’s favorite Christmas present (personalized fresh loaves for everyone!), and she gets the glow of satisfaction from creating something so many others love and appreciate. You can find that for yourself.

Learning a new skill helps you expand your horizons, literally and figuratively, and an active brain is a healthy one. So, what new “trick” will you pick up next?

Reach out to the experienced staffing team at Medical Professionals to partner in your job search or with your hiring needs today!


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