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The dawn of the school and work year is now firmly upon us, accompanied by the gradual shortening of days. Here in Madrid, the weather is becoming more temperate, bidding farewell to the scorching summer heat.
For many of us, this fresh beginning symbolizes personal growth and learning aspirations. Whether we are seasoned professionals, continuing our studies, or supporting loved ones on their educational journeys, we've all grappled with concerns about our ability to focus, retain information, and truly master new knowledge.
It's no secret that modern technology and the constant pressures of life have taken a toll on our society's capacity to learn effectively.
The ceaseless bombardment of stimuli, perpetual state of vigilance, and mounting anxieties not only hinder our brains from concentrating on a single task but also deplete their ability to retain information over time. There is even evidence suggesting a link between stress, perpetual multitasking, and a decline in creativity and innovation—vital skills for thriving in a job market where routine tasks are increasingly automated.
However, merely dissecting the problem is insufficient. Blaming technology alone is an oversimplification, as when used wisely, it can be a potent tool for learning and creation.
Here, we present some compelling strategies to boost our learning capacity, which you can begin implementing this September:
Optimize Your Space: While minor tasks and quick email replies are manageable on the go—during commutes or in cafes—establishing a deep learning process demands a serene and inviting environment. For some, this may be a cozy corner at home, while for others, it's a dedicated study space. What matters most is creating a clear, organized setting with minimal distractions. This isn't solely about reducing attention lapses; it's also about associating studying with a pleasant, comfortable ambiance. When your mind perceives learning as a time of self-nourishment and idea cultivation in a tranquil atmosphere, you're more likely to develop a habit. Reserve a date with yourself in this welcoming setting to explore, grow, and learn.
Connect Ideas: Just as linking a new habit to an existing routine is effective, connecting fresh knowledge to previous ideas, other subjects, places, or people can enhance your learning. Try envisioning how a concept relates to a familiar place or people in your life, or find practical applications for what you're trying to grasp. As these connections form, your brain solidifies its understanding, making it easier to recall.
Share Your Knowledge: The brain excels at learning when we share information. When explaining a topic, we must organize our knowledge, provide examples, and summarize our findings. Sometimes, we even infuse emotions into our explanations. Imagine that you're giving a mini-lecture or talk on the subject you're learning. How would you convey it? Would you use visuals? What examples would you share?
Summarize and Review: Write down key points and revisit them daily, attempting to recall everything you've connected, how you would explain it, and more. Even a brief exposure to the material can help solidify your long-term memory.
In the present era, it's challenging to focus amidst constant distractions and information overload. If you find it difficult to retain knowledge despite implementing these strategies, don't hesitate to reach out. We are here to support you with sessions and assessments for learning difficulties.
Nonetheless, we encourage you to give these methods a try and to set small reminders until they become second nature. You can apply them to a specific subject, delve deeper into an area of interest, or even embark on learning a new language.
May you relish the journey of mental activity and learning, and may your thirst for knowledge never cease.
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