Chapter 1: The Value of Self-Education

Self-education is essential for engaging in activities you are passionate about.

It's no secret that many people harbor a strong dislike for traditional schooling. Whether you're a high school student, a college attendee, or part of the workforce, the thought of being confined to a classroom, listening to uninspiring lectures, is often unappealing. Imagine if aliens invaded, and the only way to save yourself was to spend endless hours in class; many would choose to face the aliens instead.

This highlights a significant issue: while we can acknowledge the flaws in the educational system, we must recognize the necessity of education in achieving our aspirations. Without it, feelings of hopelessness, entrapment, and confusion can take over, especially as the knowledge required to pursue our dreams grows.

However, we can change this by:

• Shifting our mindset
• Discovering our purpose
• Engaging in self-directed learning

Here’s my motivation for learning something new every single day.

A Lesson from Flies

Flies can be quite bothersome. They often find their way into our homes and endlessly bang against the window, seeking an escape. Despite our attempts to guide them out, they remain oblivious, leading to their demise.

This behavior can mirror our own struggle with learning; at times, we become stuck, unable or unwilling to adapt due to our educational experiences.

Reframing Education

The existing education system often fosters a toxic relationship with learning. It emphasizes rote memorization over genuine understanding, compelling students to take courses that may not align with their interests.

Failure in this system is met with punitive measures, causing stress and anxiety. Would we tolerate such treatment from a friend? Expecting someone to memorize every detail without fostering meaningful interactions is not healthy.

It’s crucial to redefine our relationship with education, viewing it as a supportive ally rather than a source of punishment. Learning should be about growth, curiosity, and the freedom to explore and make mistakes.

The Struggles of Our Generation

Many find themselves in jobs or social situations they dislike, which can lead to escapism through social media or gaming. However, running from our problems doesn’t resolve them; it often exacerbates the situation.

We need to confront our feelings and acknowledge our challenges. This can involve writing down our thoughts, confiding in a friend, or openly expressing our feelings.

Discovering Your Passions

Next, we must ask ourselves important questions:

• What do I genuinely love?
• What would I like to pursue for my life?

There’s no need for a definitive answer; authenticity is what matters. Once we identify our passions, the challenge is to focus on doing more of what we love and less of what we don’t enjoy.

Creating Connections Through Projects

With a healthier view of education and clear goals, it's time to bridge the gap between our current situation and our passions. A great way to do this is through projects that ignite our interests.

For example:

• If you enjoy video editing, consider starting a YouTube channel.
• If design appeals to you, launch an Etsy shop.
• If writing is your forte, contribute articles to Medium.

Engaging in projects not only requires self-education but also fosters a joyful learning experience.

The first video, "How I Learn Something New Everyday | Growth Mindset | Sandeep Das," discusses the importance of a growth mindset in daily learning.

The second video, "How I Learn Something New Each Day The Growth Mindset," emphasizes practical steps for incorporating learning into your daily life.

Staying Motivated

It’s vital to remain focused on the enjoyment of the project itself rather than potential outcomes like fame or money. Doing so alleviates pressure and allows for exploration without fear.

Learning becomes more effective when we engage with topics that genuinely interest us. As you develop your skills and create something remarkable, success often follows.

Expanding Opportunities

With your newfound skills, various opportunities arise:

• Monetize your project
• Freelance your abilities
• Create a course
• Start a newsletter

These opportunities can lead to financial independence and the freedom to choose what remains in your life.

This journey completes the bridge towards engaging more with what you love.