Have you set yourself a resolution to expand your knowledge and skills but the idea of committing to a whole course gives you the shivers? We feel you. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to upskill without a long-term commitment. To help discover fun ways to gain knowledge, we’ve partnered with Set For Life. They recognise that having the ability to say yes to opportunities and follow your dreams—whatever they may be—allows you to live your best life.
We asked our readers how they'd spend like to spend their time if they were set for life and we found many would like to learn new skills. From retraining at university to embracing creativity in their spare time, there's a definite desire to try new things. Give these audience-sourced ideas a go this year and see if it enhances your life. Time to sharpen your pencils and go get ‘em!
Enrol In Something Short Term
Learn new skills or hone the ones you have via a short-term workshop. It’s a fast way to advance your career with up-to-the-minute training or start a new career entirely. And, if you're feeling the cost-of-living pinch like our reader Cathy, this means you can avoid taking a serious pay cut like you would if you were to commit to a course that was more long-term. Alternatively, you might choose to simply pursue a passion or discover your untapped creativity. Short-term workshops can be completed in just days or weeks and are often run through universities, colleges and schools. They’re designed to work around busy schedules with classes held at convenient times in the evenings, or weekends—some can be completed entirely online. Want to learn but don't have the cash to splash? Try these free online courses we've found.
Skill Swap With A Friend
Are you a wizard at Photoshop but don’t know the first thing about training for a marathon? Hit up your fitspo friend and ask them if they’d be interested in skill swapping. Both parties agree to exchange expertise, and you walk away with new knowledge. The method allows for unrivalled one-to-one training. Seek knowledge from your immediate circle of contacts or cast your net further with a dedicated skill-swapping website.
YouTube It Up
“Why don’t you YouTube it?” is an age-old expression for learning something new. The countless video tutorials and how-tos will teach you everything from changing a tyre to perfecting your winged eyeliner. In the context of the internet, YouTube is known for its long-form videos—it’s where you can delve into the nitty gritty details. Channel your inner geek with AsapScience or find zen with Yoga With Adriene. Want to learn how to make cheese like our reader Peta? You can find that on YouTube too. No dull textbooks are required. Whatever you want to learn, chances are you can YouTube it.
TikTok Tutorials
Much like YouTube, TikTok has become a go-to for video tutorials—and we’re not just talking about viral dance routines. Given the short-and-sweet nature of TikTok videos, the tutorials are light on the details and generally self-explanatory. If you want to learn something pronto without unnecessary fluff, it's a win. The algorithm rabbit hole will have you pouring cafe-worthy latte art in no time. We're big fans of Justine Dorian's cooking tutorials and Chrissy Flanagan's chaotic sewing circles. Or, if you want to get crafty like our reader Phillip, use the search function to find the DIY projects of your dreams—like this one.
Make Use Of Library Resources
“Having fun isn’t hard when you’ve got a library card!” This continues to ring true; in 2023, libraries are much more than physical books. They’ve upped the ante with digital resources including ebooks that span from BookTok bestsellers (Colleen Hoover, we’re looking at you) to extensive non-fiction. There are also e-magazines, audiobooks, podcasts, and visual streaming services that give Netflix a run for its money. Libraries are hubs for workshops and events—check out your local to see what they’ve got on. Our reader Jorg is a budding photographer and told us they're keen to learn more about photography. Relatable? Hire out some books and get reading. Keen to finally learn how to knit? Your library might have a workshop on offer like this one.
Listen To Educational Podcasts
Podcasts are your BFF if you learn best by listening. Once you’re up-to-date on the latest true crime pod, expand your knowledge with an educational podcast. Whatever you want to learn more about, chances are “there’s a podcast for that”. Think science, history, business, finance, music… and everything in between. The best part is you can pop in an AirPod and go about your day while passively upskilling. From mastering French on your daily walk to learning stock market 101 (like several of our readers) while washing dishes, podcasts are a great way to listen and learn.
Upskilling is just one way to level up your life. No one knows this better than Set For Life. The game gives you the chance to win $20K per month for 20 years—granting you the freedom to chase dreams and set yourself up for success. Find out more and be in with a chance to win.
Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by Set For Life and proudly endorsed by The Urban List. To find out more about who we work with and why read our editorial policy here.