In previous chapters, I did talk down about online learning sources like YouTube, and websites that pop up after a google. These sources don’t deserve the flack that I give them, as long as the user knows how to utilize these sources. YouTube videos can be perfectly direct for the issue you need to research. If you need some inspiration, google your topic and utilize the first website that pops up for inspiration. I only argue that you do not use these sources as your end-all be-all for your education.

The problem with online learning is that the information can go in one ear and out the other as soon as you find the one piece of information that you need/want. There is no interaction with the most common online learning sources. Interaction is half of the learning experience. Outside of dedicated interactive learning mediums, (Khan Academy, Masterclass, etc.) don’t be afraid to get involved with forum-like websites and interact with other users. At this time, I can recommend two sources: Reddit and Stack Overflow. Reddit can point you into all sorts of direction thanks to user input, past posts, and most subreddits have an “About us” section that can point users to the most valuable information relating to that subreddit community. Stack Overflow is a great go-to for programming and computer issues. Both of these websites require a user to create a log-in, but once you are up and running, you can be a part of these great communities. If you have a question, here is a place to ask and/or get some feedback.

Kahn Academy is widely regarded as the best, free online learning tool. With it, you can learn everything from basic arithmetic all the way through calculus. If there is a topic that you are interested in or perhaps a class that will help advance your career, your best bet is to start with Khan Academy. Khan Academy has both interactive media and videos. The problem that most people encounter is that they never actually take the classes that interest them. Everyone just assumes, “Oh I learn about it on Khan Academy, I have all that knowledge at my fingertips.” But never actually follows through with it. If you take a few classes and summarize the new-found knowledge on your resume, there is no reason you should be able to accelerate your career above those that are too lazy.

Now that we have discussed a few of the ins and outs of the various online systems you can use to improve yourself, it is time that we consider the thought process behind such tools. I love spending a few hours a week watching YouTube videos topics on the subjects that interest me. What is much easier, however, is to get lost in a YouTube rabbit hole watching videos that interest you but don’t have any value or substance to them. The best bet for learning is to blend your free time watching videos of the topic you are trying to learn.

Utilizing these learning tools is a great way to supplement your main methods of learning. If you’re reading a book or taking a class and are having a hard time understand the material, don’t hesitate to look up videos on the topic. YouTube videos are a great way to keep your brain in the correct mindset. If you’re thinking about learning how to sew, buy an entry level sewing kit and a book on the various stitches. Spend an evening learning and the next morning, watch some videos on the topics that you learned. Watch some videos on some interesting stitches you would like to try when you are more advanced. The important thing here is that you’re training yourself to make sewing a hobby. You can spend all the time in the world studying, but once you make the life changes to regularly view content on your subject of choice, you will truly start to see improvements in those areas.