Five years ago, I was very excited about public speaking. So, I spent a great deal of time reading about and researching my new favorite subject. Online search was my favorite tool. Accordingly, I have googled many aspects of public speaking. For example, speech writing, body language, gestures and posture. However, one important thing was missing: practice.

I believe one of the main reasons that I was a passive learner was that I regarded my previous knowledge and experience as less important. Introspection and reflection were missing. Thus, practice at the beginning seemed less relevant. Without realizing it, I had fallen into the trap of passive learning for months without any real progress.

I believe that many people around the world do the same. When they want to learn something, they start by looking beyond themselves for knowledge. In an era where technology controls many aspects of our lives, the impact of widespread technology increases the tendency to overlook inner wisdom. Therefore, people first start with the Internet when looking for an answer. Just type the word “how” into Google’s search bar and you will be amazed by the strange and humorous search suggestions you will see.

Every search or question or amount of time we spend online to learn something can be justified, but we are missing ourselves in the process — even though many times we are smart enough to take the first step. That’s why most of our ideas come to us while we are in the shower or while walking — because we are away from everything except ourselves.

For more effective learning, I suggest changing your paradigm to learning. In this new approach, I suggest you start within yourself. Google yourself first. Grab a pen and paper and write down what you want to learn, as well as why and how, then take action.

The search for knowledge from the outside will begin to make more sense. You may have a fear of making mistakes or being wrong. That’s normal, and Google will not cure those feelings of self-doubt. They are cured only through meaningful learning and practice. Thus, look within yourself first to understand what you want to accomplish in life.

Saad Algraini