Ask Aunt B

Dear Aunt B, I am not a very good learner. I wasn’t that successful in school, and now I am having a hard time learning new things as well.

Help Me Learn Dear Help Me Learn, Be careful of the things you say. Words are so important. If I believe that I am a poor learner, it will be hard to convince myself otherwise. We are always listening to the things we say about ourselves. Don’t speak out for your weaknesses; speak out for your strengths.

More research and findings of how our brains actually work have happened in the last 10 years than in the last 1000 years.

You know in school, we are taught things to learn but never how to learn. For some reason, it seems to be believed that we should all know how to learn inherently. As long as you learn in the way schools teach, then with a little effort you can do very well. If you learn differently than most (which most of us do), then your school and learning experience is way different. This experience can leave us scarred for life and actually afraid of trying anything new. I sure wish I knew early on and when my children were young that there was actual help for those of us that learn differently. I know that the schools do offer much help, and I sure hope that help has continued to increase, but I am not sure how much of the new knowledge has been implemented as of yet. We can’t blame the schools. They are all doing their best to keep their heads above the water as well. They are responsible for teaching a broad range of learning types with less resources and more responsibilities every day.

Understand the type of learner you are. If I hear something, I usually have it down. Reading is a little different for me, as I often have to read material multiple times to retain. I know I am speaking for my weaknesses here, just like I told you not to do. But do try to get a little understanding of your special strengths when it comes to learning.

Motivation to learn is a big deal. When I want to study something and find the material interesting or have a special use, learning comes easier. What do you want to study and why?

Set yourself up for success. Have a special study place, a place that is free from as many distractions as possible. Keep the clutter out of the area. Have good lighting. Have a writing surface and a good comfortable chair, but not fall-asleep comfortable.

Write your notes by hand. This brain to hand to written paper can be a deal changer. Repeat out loud the material you are learning. If possible, teach someone else the material. There is no better way, in my opinion, to learn anything than to teach it to someone else. Teaching others layers our learning. Set limits on the time you study. Take frequent breaks to stretch and hydrate. There is an interesting technique called the Pomodoro technique. In this method, you set a timer for a short study period and then take a five-minute break. After four blocks of study time, you take a longer break. At first this may seem like you are taking more breaks than study time, but you will soon realize that this allows you to stay focused and gives you better results. If it doesn’t, don’t do it. Go on to the next technique. There are a multitude of learning tips that can be found on the internet. Keep looking till you find what works for you.

Take better care of yourself. Get some exercise. Dial down on your sleep. Eat healthy food. Look into supplements and foods that support your brain. Whenever you supplement your body, do it with quality foods and products. Drink plenty of good, filtered water.

Happy learning.

Love, Aunt B

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