What Is Unlearning And Why Is It Important?

Old habits die hard. But you might be thinking, why do we have to let go of knowledge that we worked hard to learn? In this guide, we will explore the power and benefits behind the concept of ‘unlearning’.

The cycle of Learning, Unlearning and Relearning

Unlearning requires you to discard old beliefs, but that does not mean blindly throwing away all habits. Rather, you have to identify unhealthy habits and biases - thoughts and actions that disrupt your quality of life - such as biting your nails or worrying excessively about things you have no control over. Start by asking yourself how your life will be impacted as you unlearn this habit (Raypole, 2019). This is useful for unlearning as you are able to see how the changes you make can better support yourself, while adding new healthy routines to your life. 

Personal Growth

Our perceptions of unhealthy behavior can prevent us from moving forward. As you recognise and accept the need to move out of your comfort zone, you learn to avoid assumptions and reflect on your current mindset (Maryville University, 2022). Letting go of heavily ingrained biases and habits that no longer work for yourself then paves the way for countless possibilities, improving yourself in the process (Razzetti, 2023). 

Professional Growth 

A part of unlearning is also adaptability. While the world is frequently changing and updating in more ways than one, there is only so much your brain can take in. By embracing unlearning, you shed outdated mental models and make room in your mind for what is relevant in the current age (Giulioni, 2018). This is the key to innovation as old ways seldom yield novelty. 

Unlearning is not scary - it is a healthy, natural, and vital step in the learning cycle. Perhaps you have unlearnt a thing or two while reading this guide! Unlearning is hopefully now a concept that you can become more comfortable with!

Written by: Shernice Feng

02/2024

References

Giulioni, J. W. (2018, March). Unlearning: The Other Side of Skills/Knowledge Acquisition. Training Industry. https://trainingindustry.com/magazine/mar-apr-2018/unlearning-the-other-side-of-skills-knowledge-acquisition/ 

Guerra, M. T. A. (2023, October 24). What is learning, unlearning, and relearning?. Maryville University Online. https://online.maryville.edu/blog/learning-unlearning-relearning/  

Raypole, C. (2019, October 29). How to break a habit: 15 tips for Success. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-break-a-habit 

Razzetti, G. (2023, July 27). Empty your cup: Why unlearning is vital for success. Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/sg/blog/the-adaptive-mind/202307/empty-your-cup-why-unlearning-is-vital-for-success