I’ve been trying to challenge myself lately to learn new things.
It’s easy to get too comfortable and keep doing the same things, stuff like using the same font in a graphic, the same CSS on a site, recycling the same code because it’s easy. It’s hard to make something new or re-design something. It takes time, which we never have enough of, and effort.
I’ve dipping my toes into the world of jQuery lately. Everyone I talk to and blogs I read rave about how great it is. I’m learning and trying to think of spots where it might make sense to use a technology like this.
But I’m trying to learn stuff outside of work time too. Until about four weeks ago, I had never been on a motorcycle. In Pennsylvania, you can take a free course where they will teach you to ride. You spend a couple hours in a classroom and two Sunday mornings on a motorcycle.
It was a total blast. We never left the parking lot we trained in, but learning something new was fun and exiting. I’ve gotten outside my comfort zone and I’m now legally licensed to ride a motorcycle in the commonwealth of Pennsylvania. A win-win, no doubt.
Note: I don’t have a motorcycle and have no plans to own one. Every time I mention riding my wife and mother make a face. I think, however, I’d look pretty nice riding around campus on this (in green).
Mike, I have not taken the course but, like you, would like to even though I do not have a motorcycle. I would likely get the same treatment from my family. The scooter in the photo is more my speed. I’ve always wanted a Vespa. Hell’s Angels material we’re not