Embracing Lifelong Learning
Lesson 3: Staying Curious Is the Key to Growth and Adaptability.
One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of lifelong learning. Curiosity and the willingness to learn don’t just keep you informed—they keep you adaptable, relevant, and open to the possibilities life offers.
When we stop learning, we stagnate. Growth happens when we’re curious enough to ask questions and bold enough to explore new territories of knowledge and skills. In my experience, continuous learning isn’t just a professional necessity; it’s a life principle that has shaped who I am today.
In my mid-20s, I developed a hunger for learning—a drive that has only grown stronger over time. This was largely fuelled by the constant need to create solutions in situations where no prior guidance existed. A pivotal moment in my learning journey, especially outside formal education, came about four years ago when I joined the School of Community Leadership (SCL) program by Watoto Church. I wrote about the incredible experience of that class in my “People and Places” article and in this Facebook post.
Participating in SCL challenged me to continually improve myself, especially as I worked toward becoming the kind of leader I aspired to be. One of the topics we explored was Stephen Covey’s “7 Habits of Highly Effective People.” Habit 7, Sharpening the Saw, which is the habit of constant renewal, deeply resonated with me. It became one of the five foundational pillars of my life (which I plan to write about soon).
As part of this ongoing process of self-renewal, I became more intentional about setting learning goals. Whether it’s completing a short online course, enrolling in a specialized training, reading books, or listening to podcasts, I now deliberately seek to learn new skills while strengthening the ones I already have.
Learning isn’t always structured. Often, the most profound lessons come from asking questions, observing others, or reflecting on your own experiences. For me, staying curious means embracing uncertainty and being willing to say, “I don’t know, but I’m willing to learn.”
Curiosity also fosters adaptability. In today’s fast-changing world, the ability to learn and unlearn is what helps you stay ahead. By staying curious, you open yourself up to new ideas, different perspectives, and innovative ways of solving problems.
Whether you’re a student, professional, or entrepreneur, embracing lifelong learning is a choice that pays dividends. Start with small steps. Commit to reading one book a month, explore a topic you’ve always been interested in, or enrol in that course you’ve been putting off. The journey doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to start.
As I look back on my own journey, I see how the habit of learning has not only fuelled my growth but also enriched my life in ways I never imagined. Growth and adaptability are not destinations—they’re the results of staying curious and committed to learning every day.
So,
What are you learning today?
In case you missed Lesson 02, you can read it here
Ivan Kabandize