Learning over your lifetime has many benefits, whether acquiring a new skill for work or realising a new hobby. So, if you’re choosing to learn for learning’s sake, you’re onto something! We’ve shared six of the most impressive benefits of learning!

1. Boosts your well-being and happiness

Learning a new skill or acquiring knowledge gives you a purpose, and people with a purpose enjoy better mental health and increased happiness. A study between Oxford University and the Workers Educational Association found that when people participate in classes outside of work, they improve their mental and physical health and report greater life satisfaction. Further, a  San Francisco State University study found that people who engage in formal education experience greater happiness and life satisfaction!

2. Helps your brain stay healthy

Studies reveal that learning a new ‘complex’ skill, like digital photography or quilting, can slow cognitive ageing compared to brain games or crossword puzzles. The study published in Psychological Science included adults aged 60 to 90 who were assigned either a complex skill or simple mental activity. After three months, the group assigned complex skill development showed a wide-range improvement in memory over the crossword puzzle group.

Another study found that older adults with higher levels of intellectual stimulation throughout their lifetime had a significantly marked delay in the onset of memory issues and Alzheimer’s symptoms.

3. Social connectivity improves

A study by Oxford University found that when people study at a university or college, they tend to boost their agreeableness and likeability, encouraging positive relationships! Even if your studies are online, the wealth of knowledge you acquire increases your likeability, allowing you to engage in meaningful conversations that improve your connections with others.

4. Increases your confidence

Gaining new skills and knowledge provides a boost to your self-esteem. When you master a new skill, your confidence in both your professional and personal life grows. The sense of purpose, hope and competency make learning a powerful confidence booster!

5. Builds resilience and motivation

Learning motivates you, and a new hobby or skill can encourage you to wake up and face the day purposefully. Learning is also challenging, so you’ll build resilience by sticking with a subject or task when it gets complicated.

6. Extends your life

A commitment to lifelong learning can extend your life! Researchers have reported a significant and persistent relationship between education and health, suggesting that a year of formal education can add more than six months to your life! They also found that the more educated a person, the less likely there were to experience poor mental health, as well as chronic illnesses such as heart disease, stroke, hypertension, diabetes and more.

Undoubtedly, learning keeps the mind engaged and improves your quality of life. It helps you discover new ways of thinking, encourages new experiences, and expands your social and professional network. All these factors keep your mind healthy and ensure you stay professionally relevant.

Are you inspired to reap the health benefits of learning? If so, we can help you find a course that’s right for your personal and professional circumstances. Contact one of our friendly Course Consultants today on Live Chat or call 1300 76 2221!