A Letter To My Younger Self
Learning How to Learn
Dear Natasha,
Greetings from the year 2024! At the vibrant age of 34, I've gathered some invaluable insights that I wish to share with you, particularly as you navigate the complexities of online learning and education. Your journey as a second-generation immigrant, learning without much familial guidance, demands resilience and determination—qualities you already possess. However, the challenge of learning effectively can sometimes feel overwhelming. Here's some advice to help you master the art of learning:
1. The Pomodoro Technique: Your curious mind sometimes struggles with patience and focus. The Pomodoro Technique can be a game-changer for you. Set a timer for 25 minutes of focused work followed by a 5-minute break. Use this break to truly disconnect; take a walk instead of engaging in activities that might lead you down a rabbit hole. Preemptively list such activities and steer clear of them.
2. Exercise Regularly: Maintaining a routine of light, frequent exercise is crucial not just for physical health, but also for facilitating 'diffuse mode' thinking. This state allows your brain to subconsciously process and organise new information, especially helpful when you're stuck on a problem or seeking creative insights.
3. Active Learning: You learn best by doing. Keep a record of what learning strategies work for you and which don't. Understanding how your brain operates is key. For instance, if noise distracts you, avoid listening to music while studying.
4. Practice Recall: Reinforce your learning by actively recalling information. After studying, try writing down what you've learned, or explain it aloud as if teaching someone else. This technique helps identify areas that need more attention and reinforces your understanding. Engage in practice questions early to solidify your grasp of the material.
5. Reflect and Plan: Each night, recap what you've learned or outline the next day's tasks. This reflection helps gauge your retention and guides your study plan. Above all, prioritise sleep. Quality rest is essential for brain function, allowing it to process information and eliminate toxins.
Mastering these strategies can significantly enhance your learning efficiency. Trust me, when things get tough, or when you need to spark your creativity, return to these strategies and adapt them as necessary. They are not just tools but allies in your journey toward effective learning and problem-solving. Embrace them, tweak them to fit your evolving needs, and you'll find that they offer a reliable foundation, no matter the challenge at hand.
Wishing you all the best on your journey,
Natasha (from the future)