Are You Really Learning, or Just Getting By?

Let’s be honest—jobs change, industries shift, and the technology you mastered last year might already be irrelevant today. If you want to keep up (and stand out), learning how to learn is the most valuable skill you can have. But here’s the thing—learning doesn’t have to mean shelling out thousands of dollars on degrees or certifications. It’s really about being resourceful, staying curious, and taking charge of your own growth.

Think about it—there’s an endless supply of free or low-cost resources available right now. YouTube alone has tutorials on everything from mastering Excel to improving your public speaking skills. Need to learn a new tool for work? There’s probably a step-by-step playlist waiting for you. Want to improve your communication? There are entire channels dedicated to that. Platforms like LinkedIn Learning, Coursera, and even social media are packed with valuable content that can help you level up. But here’s the catch: the knowledge is only useful if you actually use it. Watching a video and moving on isn’t enough—take notes, apply what you’ve learned, and revisit it until it sticks.

I remember a time early in my career when I struggled with pivot tables in Excel. I avoided them for as long as I could until I had no choice but to figure it out. Instead of panicking, I searched for tutorials online, found a solid playlist, and slowly started building my confidence. At first, I thought, I don’t have time for this, but then I realized—someone else out there is making time, and that someone might be the person who gets the opportunities I want. That realization pushed me to not just learn but to keep learning.

But learning isn’t just about online courses and tutorials. Some of the best lessons come from the people around you. Pay attention to those colleagues who seem to excel effortlessly at the things you struggle with. Watch how they manage meetings, present ideas, or navigate challenges. And don’t be afraid to ask questions. A simple, “Hey, I loved how you handled that meeting—how do you usually prepare for these?” can open the door to valuable insights. Most people are happy to share their knowledge if you show genuine curiosity and appreciation.

Mistakes are another underrated learning tool. As frustrating as they are, they offer some of the best lessons—if you’re willing to learn from them. When something goes wrong, instead of beating yourself up, take a step back and ask yourself, What worked? What didn’t? And what can I do differently next time? Whether it’s underestimating a project timeline or miscommunicating expectations, every mistake is an opportunity to fine-tune your approach for the future.

Here’s something to think about: When was the last time you took the initiative to learn something new—without being asked? Are you waiting for growth opportunities to land in your lap, or are you actively seeking them out?

What’s next?

Make it a habit to dedicate time to learning each week. Whether it’s diving into a tutorial, asking a colleague for advice, or reflecting on a recent challenge, small efforts compound over time. And if you need help figuring out how to grow in your career, let's talk. Click here to schedule a coaching call.

For more career strategies, grab a copy of Career Gymnastics by Cari Hawthorne.