Importance of Learning

It is important for developers to keep learning. I have found that if you don't keep learning, you are fast left behind.

Keeping up with the latest industry knowledge isn't easy. It requires a lot of personal investment.

Methods of Knowledge Gaining

I have found great benefit from using sites like Pluralsight and the MSDN library, amongst other online and printed resources and blogs.

A common scenario I find across most learning platforms is the recommendation to read particular books. Now, I am a book reading fan, however, I tend to find technical books incredibly dry. I mean, you have to admit: learning how to create Web Parts in ASP.NET isn't quite the same as reading about The Fellowship venturing into Lothlorien.

Enter the Audiobook

I have recently taken the plunge and signed up for an account on Audible. Has it really been worth the money? As of 2 weeks-in- You betcha!!

I have already completed one book that I never ended up finishing the printed version of. I am currently listening through John Sonmez's book Soft Skills. My wish list is growing longer faster than I can shorten it!

Why Bother

Books are a terrific source of knowledge. Listening has allowed me to consume book content quickly and enjoyably.

I listen to the audiobooks in the car on the way to work, and on the way back home. I listen to it whenever I have free time that I'm not really doing anything. Audio is great because you can listen to it while multitasking on other stuff.

Now, keep in mind that listening to an audiobook while programming isn't really going to work. If you're doing some manual work however, you may be able to listen while working.

Get yourself some good earphones and start listening and investing in your future! I am.