Richer Than Gold
You may have tangible wealth untold;
Caskets of jewels and coffers of gold.
Richer than I you can never be—
I had a mother who read to me.
— Strickland Gillian (1849 – 1954)
Every day we have a choice: to take a step to follow a dream or to stay stagnant and continue on as things are. I’ve grown and changed throughout the years because I hadn’t been afraid to learn. The wisest man who ever lived once said, “Do yourself a favor and learn all you can; then remember what you learn and you will prosper” (Prov. 19:8 GNT). He knew what he was talking about!
Here are five simple steps to becoming a lifelong learner.
Learn who God created you to be.
Think about what things you enjoy doing. Make a list of things that take your time and energy but don’t seem like work. For a season I enjoyed being creative and making teddy bears, but when I first started pursing writing, I knew I was made for this. I find joy even in the middle of the struggle. I always want to know more and do better. Work doesn’t seem like work (most of the time).
Learn your learning style.
I learn best with books and papers piled around me. I usually have to write down my thoughts to process them. When I read a book, I underline. When I attend conferences, I take pages of notes, and that’s just me. Figure out how you learn best and use your preferences to your advantage.
Listen. I’ve learned so much from listening to others.
I build relationships with people I respect and want to learn from. I read blogs written by people I respect. I pay attention to those around me in everyday life.
Don’t be afraid to try something new.
I try new recipes and visit new places. I watch how-to videos and then try it myself.
Teach. The best way to incorporate your knowledge is to teach it.
As a mom, you have a willing student in your child. Involve your child in whatever you’re learning. If you’re cooking, let your little one watch you. Your child should know the things that interest you.
Learning can take you far—you just have to be brave and start! Once you start learning and growing, your life will never be the same. Your child’s life will never be the same either as he or she learns to follow in your footsteps!
Excerpted with permission from Teen Mom by Tricia Goyer, copyright Zondervan, 2015.
Other Blog Posts I’ve Written About Teen Moms
Do You Love Me? | Breaking the Cycle of Bad Relationships
The ABCs of Helping a Young Mom
Gaining Wisdom by Working with Teen Moms
A Letter to Teen Moms | You Are Important
Word Identity | Your Words Change Everything!
Share “Teen Mom” with Someone Today!
5 Practical Ways to Run a Teen MOPS Group
17 Ways to Reach out to Single Moms
Why Does Mentoring Matter? A Lesson From Mary
God Is Not Punishing You For Your Past Sins
How to Start a Teen MOPS Group
Leave a Reply