Finding Time to Learn New Technologies – 8 Tips
Learning new things and staying up to date is incredibly rewarding and key for growth in the tech field—or any field for that matter. But busy tech professionals often struggle to find time for learning new technologies while balancing work and life.
With releases, deadlines, and client calls, learning a new piece of technology might not find a place in your to-do list. While it may seem difficult, it certainly isn’t impossible with some planning and determination. Here’s how you can find time in your schedule and learn the new tech you were planning to get behind:
How to Find Time to Learn New Technologies – 8 Tips
1. Know What Takes Your Time
It is essential to know where and how you spend your time. It is safe to assume that you sleep for 7 hours. That leaves you with 17 hours. Think about how you spend these 17 hours:
- How long do you work for?
- For how much time do you exercise?
- How much time do you devote to your family?
- Do you end up wasting any time?
Once you start observing your day, you will find it easier to identify patterns and dedicate time for learning.
2. You Don't Need to Find Time – Time Already Exists
The key here is to prioritize. Know what is important. Know what is urgent.
The Eisenhower Matrix, also known as the Urgent-Important Matrix, is a handy tool that helps people prioritize tasks based on their importance and urgency.
The crux of the Eisenhower Matrix is as follows:
This simple exercise of using the Eisenhower Matrix to categorize your tasks will free up time spent on unnecessary or unimportant tasks, leaving you with more time for learning. To make life easier, Tech Trello has designed an easy-to-use template of the Eisenhower Matrix. You can simply copy the template, enter your tasks in the respective quadrants, and start your productivity journey.
3. Block Your Time
Put your calendar to work – block your learning time. Make it exclusive – don’t plan for any other task at this time.
4. Ditch Those Distractions
As tempting as it might be to check your email or see what’s up on Instagram, keep those distractions away.
It is best to keep your phone out of hand’s reach so you don’t find yourself drawn to it. Did you know that the latest Android phones have a “Focus” mode that stops annoying notifications? Now you know, so put it to use.
You will also find productivity apps on the Play Store or App Store that can help you stay focused. Also, remember to ask your family members not to disturb you during your learning time.
5. Don't Procrastinate – The Next Monday Never Comes
It is easy to procrastinate and delay your learning. But remember, sticking to your learning goals might be tough, but it is highly rewarding too. Keep in mind your purpose and goals behind learning new technologies. Remind yourself about the ‘Why’ when you feel like delaying it.
6. Hold Yourself Accountable
Remember why you completed your homework in school? It was because you were accountable to your teachers. While there isn’t any teacher to answer to now, you can replace the teacher with your spouse, friend, or a co-worker.
Tell them what you are doing, why it is important, and share your progress with them.
Ask them to be strict and not take any excuses from you.
7. Consistency is Key
Start small. Commit yourself to do a bit every day. Don’t aim to complete the course in one go or study for long hours once in a while. Keep up with doing a little bit every day for a long time and make a habit of learning.
8. Reward Yourself
Make the process fun and rewarding. Give yourself a pat on the back and treat yourself with something you enjoy (how about an ice cream?) after completing your learning milestones. In the end, it is important to enjoy the process. As you progress, you will find yourself wanting to learn more.
Happy Learning!
Now that you have time on your hands, learn how to learn any programming language fast to make the best use of this time.
