Learning is a journey of courage and connection

We learn when we connect with something in a way that holds meaning for us. Learning isn’t just about absorbing facts or mastering skills—it’s about forming a relationship with new ideas, experiences, or insights that resonate deeply with who we are. This kind of learning transforms us, shaping not only what we know but also how we see the world.

But learning isn’t always straightforward. It often requires navigating uncertainty, stepping into unknown territory, and embracing the possibility of change. True learning is courageous because it takes us beyond the familiar, opening doors to growth in unexpected ways.

So how do we navigate the uncertainty that comes with learning? Here are five steps to guide the way:

1. Identify What Interests You

Start by connecting with your curiosity. What excites you? What questions linger in your mind? When you focus on what genuinely interests you, learning becomes a journey of discovery rather than a chore. Following your passions creates a sense of purpose, grounding you in meaning even when the path ahead feels unclear.

2. Show Up and Be Present

Learning requires more than curiosity—it demands presence. Being fully engaged in the moment allows you to absorb, reflect, and connect with the experience. Whether you’re reading, experimenting, or listening, showing up with your whole self ensures that you’re open to whatever the experience has to teach you.

3. Practice Discernment

In a world overflowing with information, it’s essential to discern what’s meaningful and relevant to you. Not every idea or opportunity is worth pursuing. As you learn, listen to your inner compass and ask yourself: “Does this align with my values? Does it contribute to my growth?” Discernment helps you focus on what matters most.

4. Stay True to Yourself

Learning isn’t about conforming to external expectations or mimicking others’ paths. It’s about honoring your unique perspective and voice. Stay true to what feels authentic to you, even if it means taking an unconventional approach. When you learn in a way that reflects who you are, the process becomes deeply fulfilling.

5. Trust Yourself. Trust the Process.

Learning is inherently uncertain—you can’t always predict where it will lead or what you’ll discover. Trust yourself to navigate the unknown, and trust the process to unfold as it should. Growth doesn’t happen all at once; it’s a gradual unfolding that often surprises you with its depth and richness.

Embracing the Courage to Learn

Learning isn’t always comfortable. It asks you to step outside your comfort zone, to explore unfamiliar ideas, and to risk failure. But this is what makes it so powerful. When you approach learning with courage and an open heart, you open yourself to transformation.

So, take the first step. Follow what lights you up, show up with presence, and trust the process. Learning isn’t just about acquiring knowledge—it’s about expanding who you are and what’s possible for you. And that, in itself, is a courageous and meaningful act.

Excerpted from Getting Messy: A Guide to Taking Risks and Opening the Imagination for Teachers, Trainers, Coaches, and Mentors