When Need to Learn knows no hurdles

Learning is an important part of our lives.  I have found that learning or acquisition of knowledge is primarily driven by our “Need” to learn.  Now, this need could be caused by anytihng – personal commitment or education system or some monetary power goal!

The question then is how is the learning need fulfilled?  It is affected by four factors – Personal Ability, Resources, Institution, and the Environment.

Of these Personal ability has empirically been shown to be the most important factor generally.  The type of institution you go to and the resources you have and the environment you are born into do affect your ability a lot, but these factors can be overcome.

One would believe that lack of personal ability to learn can be the most decisive factor.. but in this illustration there is a missing factor – which is will power or passion.  When you really want to do something despite all the challenges and issues, then there is very little that can stop you.  Not even destiny!  I remember when I was in the 12th standard and I was taking my engineering exams.  I know I should have cleared the ones for the IIT or others, but somehow, I would lose my cool and make all sorts of mistakes even though I knew the questions.  And I could not make it.  A lady astrologer – our family friend then – had told me before that.. that I would not have a good education.  I nevertheless fought hard.  Made lots of mistakes and saw some pretty dark days… yet refused to believe that I can lose.  The result was that I was able to get some fairly legitimate and useful education.

I think if you have focus and a strong “refusing to lose” will power, you can do anything with you life.  When the need to learn turns out to be greater than the gain from letting go, then the will power becomes your automatic engine!

So, remember, although these four factors are important, they are not critical!