When I tell people that AI has completely transformed how I learn and develop new skills, they often assume I'm using it to do the work for me. But that's not what's happening at all.

Instead, I've discovered something far more powerful: a learning framework built around practical projects and strategic AI collaboration that has not only accelerated my skill acquisition but also opened up exciting new possibilities for personal growth.

Today, I want to share my own journey with you and break down the learning system that's working for me. I believe it could be especially valuable for anyone who may struggle with traditional learning approaches.

The Endless Learning Loop

Let me be upfront: I used to be stuck in what we could call the "learning without doing" trap. My YouTube watchlist was a sprawling collection of input, like crypto and AI news, personal growth / self-improvement topics, and tech tutorials I’d never fully put into practice. My Kindle was also packed with partially read books on these topics.

Even with all that consumption, I wasn’t seeing real progress. Does that ring a bell?

The issue, I’ve come to see, is that a lot of learning turns into a kind of "mental busywork". It feels useful, gives you a fleeting sense of accomplishment, but doesn’t actually result in growth or tangible outcomes!

This really sank in when I realized, in the past, I’d spent hours, days, weeks or even months "learning" how to build something (like a Discord bot), or gathering information, research, yet had nothing concrete to show for it, just a growing pile of bookmarked tutorials and open tabs.

This question became a new wake-up call.

The Project-First Approach That Changed Everything

Everything changed when I flipped my approach: I started with a concrete project first, then learned exactly what I needed to complete it.

Instead of watching general tutorials on Discord bot development, I defined what I wanted my bot to do for a side project:

• Track specific tokens

• Alert on specific market conditions

• Integrate with market data APIs

With this clear outline, my learning suddenly had context and purpose. When I got stuck on implementing a specific feature, I'd search for that exact solution. The knowledge stuck because I immediately applied it to solve a real problem.

Within days, I had a functioning bot that I am now able to test with a small group of enthusiasts. The satisfaction of creating something useful was incomparable to the empty feeling of passive learning.

My Learning Framework

While traditional learning often feels rigid, I've discovered a more fluid approach that works for me, especially during moments of personal exploration and downtime. On a quiet weekend morning or during a rare peaceful afternoon, I've found a rhythm that helps me stay engaged with learning:

A Flexible Learning Block

• Sometimes, I'll start with a hot drink and some quiet reflection

• A brief mindfulness practice helps center my thoughts

• I might spend an hour or two working on a personal project

• Listening to a podcast or technical content while taking a walk allows ideas to percolate

The key is flexibility. Some days, this might look like a structured session; other times, it's just a casual exploration of an interesting concept. The magic happens when learning feels more like play than work.

My approach intentionally avoids the pressure of strict schedules. Instead, I create space for curiosity to flourish naturally. Whether it's a weekend experiment or a spontaneous dive into a new skill, the goal is continuous, enjoyable learning. I've found that my best insights often come when I'm not forcing focus – sometimes letting my mind wander is where the real magic happens.

The AI Coaching Component

Here's where my approach might differ from others you've seen: I'm using AI not just as a tool, but as an active learning partner and life-coach.

I've set up my AI assistant with a specific framework to:

1. Challenge my thinking: Identify blind spots in my learning approach

2. Document progress: Help maintain my success log of key milestones

3. Provide specialized assistance: Switch between psychology, coaching, and strategic modes depending on what I need

This dynamic relationship with AI has been transformative in maintaining momentum through difficult periods. When I feel stuck or overwhelmed, having an adaptable thinking partner helps me regain perspective.

One particularly effective technique has been creating a "strategic advisor" prompt that helps me approach problems from multiple angles and identify leverage points I might miss on my own.

Exploring New Horizons

While I'm currently exploring new tools in the tech world, my journey is about personal growth, skill development, and understanding how technology can enhance my learning process.

My current projects have been a playground for:

• Building practical tools

• Understanding emerging technologies

• Developing a more flexible approach to learning

• Creating content that reflects my learning journey

The most significant win has been the personal transformation. Discovering new capabilities, building confidence, and finding joy in continuous learning.

The Feynman Technique: Teaching What I Learn

Another crucial element of my approach has been publicly sharing what I learn. This newsletter is part of that practice.

When I try to explain concepts I'm learning, I quickly identify gaps in my understanding. This forces me to go deeper and truly grasp the material.

For example, when I started writing about my Discord bot development process, I realized I couldn't clearly explain how the API integration worked. This prompted me to research more deeply, which ultimately improved my implementation.

How You Can Apply This Framework

If you're inspired to try a similar approach, here's how you might begin:

1. Define a concrete project that excites you and aligns with your goals

2. Create a clear outline with specific components or features

3. Establish a routine that includes creation time and reflection time

4. Document your progress, both successes and challenges

5. Use AI strategically as a thinking partner, not just a solution provider

6. Share what you learn, even if it's just with a small group of friends

The key is to start small. Your first project doesn't need to be ambitious - it just needs to be specific and meaningful to you!

Final Thoughts: Embracing the Journey

What I've learned through this process goes beyond technical skills. I've discovered that learning itself can be a form of self-expression when approached authentically.

By creating a personalized learning framework that embraces project-based learning, movement, and strategic technology use, we can transform any apparent challenges into distinctive advantages.

As the saying goes, "The path emerges in the walking." I'm still refining my approach, still learning, still growing. This journey is about exploration, not destination.

What I've Learned This Week: The concept of "information diet" has been transformative for me. Just as we're selective about what we eat, we should be intentional about what information we consume. I've reduced my "content inputs" to just 3-5 high-quality sources per week, and I'm noticing significantly improved retention and application. (And even less FOMO actually!)

Question for You: What's one project you could start this week that would give purpose to your learning? I'd love to hear about it!

What I saw today:

What I listened to today:

What I liked today:

Until next time, 😊

Stay curious,
Mandy

_Disclaimer:

_{This blog reflects my personal learning journey and experiments with technology. These are my own experiences and observations as I explore the fascinating world of tech and AI.}

_{Developed with image generation and writing assistance using AI.}