Your Future, Your Choice: 5 Reasons to Embrace Lifelong Learning

In today’s rapidly evolving world, the concept of lifelong learning has become more relevant than ever. It’s no longer enough to rely on the knowledge and skills acquired during formal education. To stay competitive, adapt to change, and achieve personal and professional growth, we must embrace a continuous learning mindset.

We no longer exist in a professional environment where the core skills we learn in our alma maters can be hones with experience only. In fact, as per the Evolution of Skills Study 20230 by Lepaya (1), the average lifespan of a skill in the AI-empowered multiverse is just 2.5 years! Hence, lifelong learning is about staying relevant as a professional and growing at pace with technology. It’s about challenging ourselves, stepping outside our comfort zones, and embracing the transformative power of education.

At Emeritus India, our motto is to make high-quality education accessible. And our learners share our belief in the effectiveness of continuous learning. So as we embark on a new year, we caught up with a bunch of our learners to share their views on the value of continuous learning and how it changed their lives. And here is what they had to say!

1. Upskilling is a Necessity, Not a Luxury

Dr. Shivani Nigam is a highly accomplished academic with a PhD in Online Buying Behavior and over six years of teaching experience. Despite her impressive credentials, she recognized the importance of continuous learning in the dynamic field of digital marketing. Her decision to enroll in IIM Indore’s Digital Marketing Programme, delivered by Emeritus, underscores her commitment to lifelong learning and her desire to stay ahead in the digital age.

“Lifelong learning is not a luxury, it’s a necessity. In today’s rapidly evolving world, upskilling is crucial, regardless of your field. There will never be a perfect time to start. If you’re determined and enthusiastic, you can carve out time to learn and grow. For women balancing careers and families, remember that excuses will always exist, but investing in yourself is non-negotiable. Education, a lifelong asset, will always benefit you, both professionally and personally.” says

Dr. Shivani Nigam, a Senior Assistant Professor at a prestigious Bangalore college

-> Read About How Dr. Nigam Empowered Change by Balancing Maternity and Upskilling   

2. Only Continuous Learning Can Help Us Adapt to an Uncertain Future

Deloitte’s 2023 Global Technology Leadership Study highlights a growing trend: technology leaders are taking on broader organizational roles. This shift demands a more expansive skill set. Anand Kapoor, Group CIO at Straive, has firsthand experience of this evolution. He’s undergone the ISB Executive Education’s CDO Programme to enhance his digital leadership capabilities. For Kapoor, lifelong learning isn’t just about career advancement but about embracing challenges and pushing the boundaries of innovation. Here’s why he believes lifelong learning is a must-have. 

“For the first time in history, we don’t know what the office of the future will look like. We don’t even know what skills will be needed in five or ten years. This uncertainty is why lifelong learning is more important than ever. Whether it’s structured learning through executive programmes or learning on the job, you have to keep growing. If you’re not learning, you’re falling behind!”

Anand Kapoor, Group CIO at Straive

-> Check Out Anand Kapoor’s Journey With ISB Executive Education’s CDO Programme

3. Lifelong Learning is a Must to Unlock Your True Potential

With 17 years of experience, Shwetha Y recognized the need to transcend technical roles and embrace a broader business perspective. To achieve this, she enrolled in ISB Executive Education’s Chief Digital Officer (CDO) Programme. Her journey exemplifies the growth and potential of women in technology leadership. Swetha’s ambition to inspire other women leaders fuels her commitment to continuous learning and professional development.

“While the road to knowledge is often walked alone, the support of loved ones can light the way. Communicate your aspirations, address their concerns, and together, you can overcome any obstacle. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey of lifelong learning. With the right support and a steadfast commitment to personal growth, you can unlock your full potential and achieve extraordinary things,” says

Swetha Y, Head of Platforms & DevOps COE at ITC.

-> Explore Shwetha Y’s Misson to Bridge her Knowledge Gap by Upskilling

4. Upskilling is Imperative for Leading in a Technological Age

In today’s fast-paced digital world, experience alone is no longer a guarantee of success. Continuous learning and adaptation are essential to stay ahead. Even seasoned professionals must embrace change to thrive. Ganapathy Shankar, CEO and Chief AI Architect at TensorHub Technologies, exemplifies this. With over two decades in the tech industry, he recognized the need for evolution and enrolled in ISB Executive Education’s Chief Digital Officer (CDO) Programme. His journey underscores the transformative potential of executive learning. 

“Today, every business is a technology business, so the leader of the future must be a technology leader. To professionals considering executive education, identify your learning objectives and choose programmes that align with them. Engage deeply with the content, faculty, and peers; the richness of the experience lies in these interactions. In the tech world, learning is perpetual—technology waits for no one.”

Ganapathy Shankar, CEO and Chief AI Architect at TensorHub Technologies

-> Learn How Ganapathy Shankar Went From Tradition to Transformation by Upskilling

5. Lifelong Learning is the Best Way to Invest in Yourself

The world of marketing had been her home for over a decade. After working across various aspects of marketing, such as content, communications, branding, and strategy, Snigdha Sukhavasi reached a point in her career where she yearned for something different. This was when she decided to enrol in the ISB Executive Education’s Product Management Programme. The programme not only served as her first formal foray into the world of product management but also provided her with a foundation to build upon. 

“Often, we find ourselves questioning the value of further education. However, taking a moment to reflect on your professional aspirations can illuminate the path forward. Identify the skills and knowledge gaps that hinder your progress, and invest in upskilling courses to bridge them. By embracing a lifelong learning mindset, you empower yourself to adapt to change, seize new opportunities, and achieve your full potential. Remember, learning is not just a destination; it’s a continuous journey that enriches your life both personally and professionally.”

Snigdha Sukhavasi, Product Marketing Manager, Netsuite

-> Know How Snigdha Sukhavasi Transitioned From Marketing to Product Management

Are You Ready to Embrace Continuous Learning?

The best way to look at continuous learning in the current professional space is akin to a SIP. It’s a good habit and a smart decision that helps you take small steps to grow toward an end goal. It’s your systematic investment in yourself as a professional that sets you up for the future that you have envisioned for yourself. If our learners have inspired you to see the big picture and start upskilling today, explore in-demand courses across a wide range of categories only on Emeritus India. 

References

1. Evolution of Skills Study 20230 by Lepaya

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