5 skills I wished I had learnt as a student

As I look back on my time as a student, I realize there are several skills I wish I had prioritized. These skills not only have the potential to enhance career prospects and increase earning potential, but they also play a significant role in personal growth and success. Here are five essential skills I regret not learning earlier and how you can start mastering them today.

1. Financial Literacy

Why It's Important:

Financial literacy is the foundation for managing money effectively, making smart investment decisions, and achieving financial independence. Understanding budgeting, saving, investing, and credit management can significantly improve your financial stability and success.

How It Can Make Money:

By being financially literate, you can make informed decisions about investments, avoid debt traps, and take advantage of opportunities to grow your wealth.

How to Start Learning:

• Books and Online Courses: Start with books like "Rich Dad Poor Dad" by Robert Kiyosaki or "The Total Money Makeover" by Dave Ramsey. Platforms like Coursera and Udemy offer courses on personal finance and investing.

• Financial Apps: Use apps like Mint or YNAB (You Need A Budget) to manage your finances and track your spending.

2. Public Speaking and Communication

Why It's Important:

Effective communication and public speaking are crucial for almost every career. These skills enable you to express your ideas clearly, influence others, and build strong professional relationships.

How It Can Improve Job Success:

Strong communication skills can set you apart in job interviews, presentations, and networking events, making you a more attractive candidate and a better leader.

How to Start Learning:

• Join Toastmasters: Toastmasters International is a great organization that helps people improve their public speaking and leadership skills.

• Practice Regularly: Take every opportunity to speak in front of others, whether it’s in meetings, at events, or through volunteer work.

3. Coding and Technical Skills

Why It's Important:

In our increasingly digital world, coding and technical skills are highly valuable. They open doors to a wide range of careers in tech and beyond, from software development to data analysis and cybersecurity.

How It Can Make Money:

Tech jobs are among the highest-paying positions today. Even in non-tech roles, coding skills can increase your efficiency and innovation, leading to better job performance and higher earning potential.

How to Start Learning:

• Online Platforms: Websites like Codecademy, freeCodeCamp, and Coursera offer courses for beginners.

• Build Projects: Start with small projects to apply what you’ve learned and gradually take on more complex challenges.

4. Networking

Why It's Important:

Networking is essential for career growth and opportunities. Building a strong professional network can help you gain insights, find mentors, and access job opportunities that aren’t advertised.

How It Can Improve Job Success:

A robust network can provide support, advice, and opportunities, significantly enhancing your career prospects.

How to Start Learning:

• Attend Events: Participate in industry conferences, seminars, and networking events.

• Online Platforms: Use LinkedIn to connect with professionals in your field and join relevant groups and discussions.

• Follow Up: Keep in touch with your contacts and offer value by sharing useful information or connecting them with others.

5. Time Management

Why It's Important:

Effective time management helps you prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and maintain a healthy work-life balance. It’s a skill that enhances productivity and reduces stress.

How It Can Improve Job Success:

Employers value employees who can manage their time well and deliver high-quality work efficiently. Good time management also allows you to pursue additional learning and career development opportunities.

How to Start Learning:

• Use Tools: Tools like Trello, Asana, or even simple to-do lists can help you organize and prioritize your tasks.

• Set Goals: Break down your goals into smaller, manageable tasks and set deadlines for each.

• Learn to Say No: Avoid overcommitting by learning to say no to tasks that don’t align with your priorities.

Conclusion

Reflecting on these skills, I realize how they could have significantly impacted my career and personal growth if I had learned them earlier. However, it's never too late to start. By investing time in learning financial literacy, public speaking, coding, networking, and time management, you can enhance your career prospects, increase your earning potential, and achieve greater success in life. Start today, and you’ll be amazed at the positive changes these skills can bring.