I love to learn new things. Learning has several great benefits. Learning opens new worlds and opportunities. It keeps my mind nimble. It helps me cultivate humility, since I remember what it’s like to be a beginner and to fail.

A new year is a great time to learn a new skill: a new language, a new craft, a new cooking technique, a new sport. The options are endless.

Is there something you’ve always wanted to know how to do? What practical steps can you take to learn? Here are some things you might try:

• Check your local community college or county recreation agency for reasonably priced classes. Classes may be limited or virtual die to pandemic restrictions.
• Free or low-priced apps can help you learn languages.
• Stores often offer classes as one-time options or as series (though once again, availability may be limited by pandemic restrictions). Check your local craft, home repair, or cooking store for options.
• Your public library is a great center for learning new things. My library offers language instruction videos, crafting videos, free courses on a variety of topics, and access to videos of great courses on more topics than I can count.

If you really want to learn something, you will need to spend time learning and practicing. It’s ok to fail and to keep trying. That’s what makes it worthwhile.