“An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.”
Benjamin Franklin
Let’s get this straight right from the start, I was never good in formal education. I did not do well at school, my GCSEs and A levels were barely passable. I never went to university and to be honest I never wanted to.
That does not mean I don’t like education, as I love to learn. You will always find me with at least a non-fiction book to hand and a pile to be read. The greatest education a man can have is a library full of books, from which to learn. I also absorb documentaries that provide a chance to learn something. I immerse myself in courses, seminars and lectures. And there is not much better than having a stimulating conversation with some friends over an interesting topic.
I am not suited to formal education, though others are and I appreciate that, but however you get your knowledge it is worth acquiring.
All my family are avid readers and they instilled a love of reading in me. At school I would annoy the teachers of subjects I enjoyed by challenging them with books I had read. I remember being sent to the Headmaster for challenging a History teacher about his perspective on the Germans in World War II after I had read a diary by a German General.
“All knowledge is worth having.”
Jacqueline Carey, Kushiel’s Dart
We have to be always learning and therefore growing. It is part of sustenance for us in life. There are many studies that show that we can stave off elements of aging by using our brains more. If you read any list of traits of successful people, they all cite the relentless pursuit of knowledge and learning as an essential part of their success.
I am certainly not negative to formal education. Part of my Mid-Life crisis was taking an MBA, which was a hell of a challenge, but with help and persistence I managed it. I think that it is like having a toolbox of knowledge and you need the right learning platform and the right motivation to inspire you to acquire that learning and lore.
There is power in education and knowledge. It can help you climb the career ladder, help you secure a financial future and even find the partner of your dreams. I am currently re-learning languages and delving deeper into other areas of the Gentleman.
So, whether it is one of our courses or books, or someone else’s seminars or lecturers, go forth and educate yourself and you will be in a position to educate the world!
Educationally yours,
#1PG
