Picture this: it’s Winter. Deep Winter. You’re a couple months into the New Year and the resolutions you made a month and a half ago are starting to get thin. “The gym will be there tomorrow when it’s not below freezing outside,” you say. “My after-work French tutor will still be there next week to get upset at me for forgetting how do spell ‘hors d’oeuvres,’” you say. This picture looks suspiciously familiar, doesn’t it? That’s alright. Remember that Einstein supposedly once said that “Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the universe.” He had a hard time learning stuff, too.
Thankfully, finding an outlet for personal development is becoming increasingly relevant and simple with today’s online technology. Entire platforms are at your disposal. We’ve created a list of our favorite ways for you to better yourself and to learn a few interesting things while you’re at it:
You’ve definitely done this before. fortune.com reports from a survey that around 35% of the United States adult population uses YouTube a source for tutorials and how-to’s. Need to figure out how to create a spreadsheet before a meeting tomorrow? Want to figure out how to create latte art? YouTube definitely has it.
Udemy
From “Graphic Design Bootcamp” to “Energy Healing,” udemy.com offers thousands upon thousands of $11.99 courses that can help you jumpstart or supplement your education, wherever it may be at. Udemy.com is a brilliant tool that allows you to filter courses based on aggregate ratings, course specifics, and even by length. Some of these full-length courses are even free. Find a 94% off udemy coupon here:
The Library
That’s right. Just go to the library. It’s free, it’s fun, and the “For Dummies” section will keep you busy for weeks.
Coursera.com
This one is especially useful for those who aren’t in the position to afford a college education. Coursera pairs professors from top universities around the country, including colleges like Stanford and Duke, with classrooms that are all-online and incredibly affordable. Courses last about a month and are $29-99, Specializations last up to 6 months and are $39-79 per month, and full degrees are $15-25k for coursework lasting up to 3 years. They offer financial aid and a dynamic range of studies to choose from (and they currently have up to 40% off select offerings).
Workshops
An underrated and often under-represented forum for personal development is the good ole fashioned workshop! Cities across the country have public and private workshops held all the time. Try eventbrite.com for specific listings and even contact your local Better Business Bureau for information regarding opportunities in your home town.
The Winter doesn’t have to be a time when you agonize over failed resolutions. Take baby steps toward bettering yourself in the areas that you need to improve. Learn a new skill. Figure out how to start your small business. Maybe even learn how to do your taxes…