The 3 benefits of lifelong learning
Former UFC fighter and literature enthusiast Charlie "The Spaniard" Brenneman reveals that inner doubt has always been the source of his many initiatives. Whether through wrestling, MMA or his studies, the former UFC fighter has constantly sought out opportunities that could help him improve.
Podcast host The Spaniard ShowBrenneman admits to an internal dialogue that drives him to constantly challenge himself. When he was an active MMA fighter, he was motivated by the world-class opponents he trained with on a daily basis. Now retired from cage fighting, The Spaniard thought of an intuitive way to stay in touch with an inspiring elite. He began reading books by world-renowned authors from a variety of fields.
I got used to rubbing shoulders with the elite on a daily basis. And when I stopped fighting, I wasn't anymore. [But] I can read books written by elites. Now I'm surrounded by world-class elites every day.
Author of Drivenan autobiography chronicling his transition from teaching to MMA, Charlie Brenneman recalls developing a passion for reading at an early age. Champion of the reality TV series Pros vs Joes (season 1), he recalls being bullied at school. He confides that he was bullied simply because he was dedicated to his studies and sporting achievements. The proud former AMA Fight Club athlete is now dedicated to helping others achieve their goals despite adversity.
Nicknamed The Spaniardthe mixed martial arts expert asserts that every initiative must be undertaken with a view to perfection. Just as a good martial arts practitioner seeks to improve on a daily basis, it is essential to approach any activity with the intention of practicing, learning and progressing. In this way, Brenneman asserts that the progress made through his initiatives correlates with the improvement of his resilience.
Inspired by the "Principle of Progress" outlined in the book The Happiness Hypothesis by Jonathan Haidt, Charlie Brenneman proposes that to be happy is to appreciate the process of any initiative. He also points out that the pursuit of a goal is an essential source of personal happiness.
3 key benefits of lifelong learning
Sensei says: Perspective
01
Listening to Charlie, I realize that reading books written by successful people in a particular field enriches my perspective on that subject. What's more, the knowledge gained from these readings can also be applied to solving personal situations.
Sensei says: Empathy
02
Motivated by SpaniardI recognize that drawing inspiration from authors from different backgrounds enhances empathy. Indeed, the more we know about people and have a good understanding of society, the more we understand others.
Sensei says: Know-how
03
Literature is full of technical knowledge and know-how. I agree with Charlie Brenneman: whatever our passion, relevant reading contributes to our success. That's why the UFC veteran has written a business-oriented book entitled Becoming the World's Toughest Lifelong Learnerto help entrepreneurs achieve their goals.
