Learning as a tool for happiness and resilience
Education is a natural part of life. We learn with our children, when changing jobs, and during everyday challenges. However, if we choose the direction and method of learning ourselves, it brings much more than just new skills. Conscious learning strengthens our self-confidence, motivation, and desire to discover. In addition, the pace of work slows down in the summer, our calendars become less busy, and in the silence we can suddenly hear ourselves better. It is the ideal time to make room for what we normally put off.
Our brains don't age as quickly as we thought
Have you heard of neuroplasticity? This ability of the brain to change, create new neural connections, and adapt works not only in children but also in adults. Whenever we try something new—such as learning a language, dancing, or woodworking—we activate different parts of the brain. This strengthens our memory, attention, and ability to regulate emotions. It's similar to physical fitness: the more we use our brain, the better it serves us.
Neuroplasticity also has a positive impact on our mental balance. According to experts, people who have embraced the principle of "lifelong learning" are more mentally resilient, cope better with change, and are less prone to stress.
- Did you know that learning also increases dopamine levels - a substance associated with joy, motivation, and a sense of purpose? This means that we not only gain skills, but also feel good.
What new skills should you learn this year?
You don't have to plan a major career change right away. Often, it's enough to try something that has always appealed to you, even if it seems seemingly useless. That's where the greatest potential for personal growth often lies.
A few tips to get your mind moving this summer:
- Learn a language, even if you're not traveling anywhere. New language = new perspective.
- Try making something with your own hands – from woodworking to sewing or modeling.
- Dance, even if you think you have no rhythm.
- Write, take photos, paint. Creativity heals, even if the result isn't perfect.
- Cook something new. The kitchen is a laboratory full of discoveries.
- Go to a workshop or arrange mentoring. For inspiration and human contact.
Summer learning is special because it is free, relaxed, and playful. Maybe you don't need another certificate - just experience that joyful moment when you master something for the first time.
Skills as a benefit
Did you know that you can finance many courses and workshops through your Benefit Plus cafeteria? The offer is varied, and personal growth doesn't have to remain just a dream.
What should you go for? Here is our inspiration:
SPĚVÁČEK language courses
Summer intensive courses, individual lessons, and online lessons. English, German, Italian, Spanish, and more. Whether you are planning to go abroad or finally want to watch Netflix without subtitles.
ArtMoment – Art courses and experiential painting
Experiential painting and art courses. Acrylics, candle making, ceramics, evenings with wine and colors. Even for complete beginners. Because creativity doesn't need experience, just the desire to create.
Makeful – Creative fashion laboratory
Innovative courses combining fashion, design, and technology. Modern materials and styling. For adults and teenagers. Discover the unique world of 3D-printed fashion and take your creativity to a new level.
Polagraph – Analog photography
Discover the magic of film photography. Individual and group photography workshops. Analog photography, film development, and photo enlargement. A creative space for those who want to slow down.
HobbyLab – Carpentry and Renovation Courses
From small projects to furniture. A public craft workshop with professional equipment. Courses in carpentry, woodturning, renovation and upholstery, woodcarving, and metalworking. Great for beginners and advanced learners alike.
Dance school for everyone
Courses in Latin, swing, tango, or salsa. Solo, couples, or groups. Great for relaxing your body and mind.
Podcasts that are enjoyable to listen to
Learning doesn't have to be active. Listening to local podcasts is a great way to educate yourself, find inspiration, or discover new connections. And, of course, practice the language of the country you work in. Just put on your headphones and go for a walk.
We have selected Czech podcasts that provide deeper insight and everyday inspiration:
- Brain We Are | neuroscience, biohacking, self-development | Clear explanations about the brain, mind, biohacking, and how we function. Practical, factual, presented in a human way.
- Proti Proudu | interviews with exceptional people | In-depth interviews that get to the heart of the matter. Very popular across professions.
- Deep Talks | psychology, critical thinking, business | Practical interviews about the balance between performance and calm.
- Moje terapie | mental health, therapy, relationships | Intimate insights into real therapy sessions, authentic and empathetic.
- Příběhy 20. století | history, eyewitness accounts | Powerful stories of people from war, communism, and emigration. Emotionally powerful.
- Čelisti | film and TV series culture | Entertaining, ironic, and clever reflections on culture. Suitable even without popcorn.
- Čestmír Strakatý Podcast | current topics, society, interviews | In-depth interviews with politicians, artists, and activists. Serious, yet accessible.
- Vinohradská 12 | news, current events | Daily analytical podcast from Czech Radio. Short, concise.
- Plný kecky | self-love, motherhood, everyday life | Authentic conversations between two friends about life without embellishment. Lighthearted, but with depth.
When summer asks what you did...
...you can answer: "I learned something new again... and I enjoyed it." Because it is precisely this inner desire that is the engine that keeps us moving and balanced.
