Avoiding Obsolescence

The other day, I was having a conversation with someone who remarked that he didn’t feel the need to take any more training. He knew what he needed and wasn’t going to invest any more time or money on any type of class or workshop. I immediately felt a pang of sadness. If we’re not lifelong learners, we get stagnate and become obsolete. It’s too easy to get comfortable, and it’s also important not to let technology and the world pass you by. Here are a few things you can do to keep up your writing and marketing skills.

• Join a writer’s group. There are so many that are in-person or virtual, and they offer all kinds of free and low-cost workshops, training, and programs.

• Check out your local library. Many have a variety of programs and training available.

• Use Google and YouTube. Chances are someone has created some how-to for any subject that you’re looking for. I always start here when I’m looking for how to do something.

• Many software companies offer training on their products or ways to creatively use their software. I use Canva and BookBrush, and they both have wonderful libraries and classes.

• LinkedIn Learning and other training companies offer subscriptions for their classes. This is a way to beef up technology and softer skills.

• If you want to improve your public speaking skills, check out your local Toastmasters. It is a wonderful organization that teaches the fundamentals (and advanced skills) and provides feedback in helpful way. I am so grateful for all that I learned in Toastmasters. It helped me along on my author path.

What else would you add to my list?