This is a question that I get often from my husband. And although, my parents, kids, neighbors and others don’t ask, I know some of them wonder too. For a while, it was hard for me put into words, let alone explain what I have done for the past year. But over the past few weeks, it has all become crystal clear.

For the past year, I have been learning at BanklessDAO. I won’t bore you with what exactly a DAO is, as it is irrelevant.

There are trade and vocational schools for Plumbers, Carpenters, Cosmetologists, Electricians, etc. Since inception, these programs at trade schools have provided real life, hands-on experience for these specific niches, through labs and workplaces.

This was an amazing way to learn for those that learn by doing, and not just by reading about their trade in a text book. Those that learned Math better by playing games with M&M’s than by memorizing the multiplication tables.

The Covid-19 Pandemic, made it impossible to continue this type of learning module. Teachers and students adapted via on-line and distance learning. However, this style of learning was difficult for those with short attention spans, ADD/ADHD, learning disabilities, or those that need the hands on experience in order to process and retain information. Without in real life experiences, it became impossible for many to learn via this style and to actually retain any information.

Amazing programs quickly were developed for each specific niche area. However, as we know, not everyone is cut from the same cloth.

What about the one off’s, the one’s that are multi-skilled. The ones that can fix a dryer, maintain profit and loss sheets, prepare and file taxes, dance, build a patio, sew, train animals, collect rocks, write, design and at times, heard children. The creators. The dreamers. The ones that know they can do better. The Doers. The leaders.

Everyone has heard of The Sims, a series of life simulation video games, well think of a work simulated game, where the player is a student/someone learning. The student can be aware that they are “a player” and learning, however, to achieve the maximum experience, the student doesn’t know that they are learning or playing.

Unbeknownst to myself at the time, I got to experience this firsthand - thanks to BanklessDAO.

So, this is what I have been doing for the past year. It may not be for everyone, but for me, it was by far the greatest learning experience that I could have ever received - for more reasons that I can even think of. I learned more than I have ever learned. In fact, I learned skills, critical thinking techniques and problem-solving solutions that I don’t even know I learned. There are some days I encounter and solve some problem or issue that I previously would not have been able to. After, I find myself proudly smiling, in awe and amazement.

Now, in the grand scheme of things, I know a year is not a great length of time. But as with everything, I believe it’s not doing unless you do it the absolute best that you can. No matter what.

I want to ensure that I share my entire learning journey.

A journey of the skills and knowledge that I learned and what I learned about myself.

A journey about how I became a better me, and be the best me I can be.

How I became a champion.