Back-to-School is one of my favorite times of year. I love everything about it. From getting new notebooks, pens (Dr. Grip – Amazon Link – is the best!) and pencils to the anticipation of learning something new. It is just exciting to me.
Going Back to School at 50
Twelve years ago, at age 50, my husband and I were taking our son on college visits. While walking through those campuses, I felt a familiar tug — I had always wanted to earn my MBA. The more schools we toured, the more that dream came back to life. After my son made his choice, I made mine: I enrolled in an evening MBA program while still working full-time. It wasn’t easy, but it was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Being an older student meant I could bring a lifetime of perspective to the classroom, and in return, I discovered just how much more I was capable of. That diploma wasn’t just a degree — it was the fulfillment of a goal I had carried for years. And part of my life-long learning journey.
Why Continuous Learning Matters
We all know physical activity slows aging — but mental activity does, too. In the Psychology Today article, “Education and the Aging Brain,” researchers explain that continued learning improves our “cognitive reserve,” or the brain’s ability to resist decline. In one study, adults who took on new educational challenges showed less cognitive decline over four years than those who didn’t. While genetics play a role, giving our brains something new to chew on is one of the best gifts we can give ourselves.
Beyond protecting cognitive function, continuous learning can also enhance our emotional well-being. Tackling new skills or subjects often brings a sense of accomplishment, boosts confidence, and fosters curiosity — all of which contribute to a more engaged and fulfilling life. It can also expand our social circles, whether through classes, workshops, or online communities, creating opportunities for connection and shared experiences that further enrich our mental and emotional health.
Proof That It’s Never Too Late
Need inspiration? Look at these late-blooming achievers:
- Laura Ingalls Wilder – Published her first book at 64.
- Peter Mark Roget – Published the Thesaurus at 73 and edited it until his death at 90.
- Benjamin Franklin – Signed the Declaration of Independence at 70 and continued public service until 85.
- Frank Lloyd Wright – Designed the Guggenheim Museum at 91.
- J.R.R. Tolkien – Published The Lord of the Rings trilogy in his 60s and wrote into his 80s.
And here’s my favorite reminder:
Anyone who stops learning is old, whether twenty or eighty. Anyone who keeps learning stays young.
– Henry Ford
My Learning Journey at 60
Last year, I took on a learning challenge — starting this blog. My hope was to share insights and inspire you as you enter your third act.
- When to take Social Security?
- Should you downsize our home?
- How will I like being a grandparent?
- How do I build muscle and bone?
- Which Medicare option is best?
- And, of course, how do I lower my golf handicap? (Still working on that one.)
In the process, I’ve learned website building, SEO, and more about writing than I ever imagined. The learning never stops — and that’s exactly the point.
What Can You Do?
Your “classroom” can be anywhere — and the lessons can be anything that challenges your brain. I have a good friend that takes the Wall Street Journal and reads it cover to cover every day. Keeping up with current affairs today is a challenge all in itself. Or maybe…
- Learn a new language.
- Take up painting or photography.
- Play a musical instrument.
- Write that book you’ve always dreamed about.
- Audit a community college class.
- Even commit to reading one book a month
- Or look at starting that new business or making that career change you’ve always wanted!
It doesn’t have to be big — it just has to keep you growing.
Still struggling – Try reading Mojo: How to Get It, How to Keep It, How to Get It Back If You Lose It, by Marshall Goldsmith (Author) – it really helped both my husband and myself!
Your Turn:
What’s something new you’ve learned recently, or something you want to learn this year? Share in the comments — I’d love to be inspired by your journey!
Note: This post includes Amazon links. I may receive a small commission (thank you) at no additional cost to you.
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