Throughout a person’s life, we develop new hobbies and interests; things we want to learn how to do. Recently, I have become interested in learning how to crochet. This is a skill that I have always wanted to learn but never had the time to do so. However, I decided now was the time to tackle this new hobby head on. 

With any new skill, there is a learning curve. Before deciding what project I wanted to create, I had to figure out how to successfully make the knots and stitches. This was a puzzle for me. I consulted YouTube videos, friends and even some of my students at school to start this process. Through some practice and a few frustrations, I grasped the concept of how to do knots and stitches, giving me the first step to crocheting a design – a stuffed octopus. I have continued to develop this new skill throughout recent months, and soon, I will finish this octopus. During this process, I have not only learned how to crochet, but I have also discovered a few benefits of what it means to learn a new skill. Whether it’s mastering a musical instrument, picking up a new language or, for me, learning how to crochet, the benefits are rewarding. 

Learning new skills helps grow your mind and open doors to many opportunities. These are just two of the many benefits, including the ones below:

1. The brain is like a muscle; the more you exercise it, the stronger it becomes. Learning a new skill works different areas of the brain, enhancing cognitive functions such as memory, attention and problem solving. It promotes mental agility, allowing a person to adapt more effectively to new situations and challenges.
2. There is a sense of accomplishment that is felt when you learn a new skill. Conquering challenges and overcoming obstacles instills a deep sense of self-belief and empowerment. This newfound confidence can then be applied to other aspects of life and can help develop a positive mindset.
3. Learning a new skill opens the door to a world of possibilities. It exposes individuals to new ideas, perspectives and cultures. It also ignites curiosity and knowledge, encouraging lifelong learning and personal development.
4. The process of learning a new skill often involves thinking outside the box and approaching problems from different angles. This way of thinking can spill over into other areas of life. 
5. Engaging in a challenging, yet rewarding pursuit such as learning a new skill can serve as a form of stress relief. It provides an outlet for self-expression and creativity, offering a release from the pressures of daily life. Additionally, the sense of accomplishment derived from making progress and achieving goals contributes to overall mental well being and resilience.
6. Whether through classes, workshops or online communities, developing a new skill provides opportunities for networking and building meaningful relationships. These connections not only enrich the learning experience but also create a support system for growth and collaboration.

The benefits of learning a new skill extend far beyond what we can initially see. It is a journey of self-discovery, personal growth and empowerment. By challenging ourselves to step out of our comfort zones and embrace new challenges, we unlock our full potential and cultivate a lifelong passion for learning. Don’t be afraid. Go and learn that new skill you have been putting off. You’ll be glad you did.