Create a schedule
Creating a study plan makes it quicker and easier to learn and master new skills. Choose a time that fits in with your natural daily routine.
Get feedback
To put new skills into practice effectively, it’s essential to get regular feedback. Good feedback allows you to reflect, which is vital to the learning process.
Take the time to reflect on the progress you’re making. What went well? What do you want to improve on next time? Self-reflection strengthens your personal growth and allows you to check your progress.
Start with core skills
It can seem a bit daunting. Most skills consist of core skills (core competences) and secondary skills. But what’s the difference? The core skills are essential to learning a new skill. Secondary skills are useful, but not essential. Concentrate on the core skills.
Taking things step by step
Learning a new skill can be a long and complex process. Split it into a series of smaller steps. Setting milestones like this also helps you track your progress.
Learn from other people's experience
Who do you know with the relevant experience and the skills you’re looking to get? Do they have any tips for you? And what pitfalls should you be on the lookout for?
Learn from the experts
Study the experts in the area you want to learn the new skill. Who are the authorities? Why are they so good and what makes them authorities in their subject area? Use their tricks, tips, experience, and knowledge to expand your skill set.
Find a mentor
Is there someone who could mentor you towards mastery of a specific skill? Most people are more than willing to help and will share their knowledge with others.
Set realistic goals
Don’t make them too big. This often has a demotivating effect or stops you in your tracks before you even start! Getting new skills involves setting realistic, positive, and challenging goals.
Take action
Learning by doing is vital to mastering and refining your skills.
Know yourself
What are your strengths and weaknesses? What qualities, talents, and character traits do you have to help you learn a specific skill? Asking yourself these questions generates the insight required to learn more.
What do you think?
Is there a skill you already have that you’d like to develop or one you’d like to have?
Sometimes it can be difficult to know what your skills are and where you can develop.
How is this relevant to me?
The more skills you have the more positively you will be seen by others. You’ll have a stronger CV, more confidence in interviews and be motivated to achieve more.
