Hey there, fellow product managers! Today, I want to chat about something that's been on my mind lately: how the heck do we keep learning new skills in this crazy-fast tech world without losing our minds?

The Struggle is Real

Let me paint you a picture: It's 7 PM, and I've just wrapped up a day full of sprint planning, stakeholder meetings, and putting out the usual fires. I'm exhausted, but I know I need to crack open that Python tutorial I've been promising myself I'd start for weeks. Sound familiar?

As product managers, we're constantly juggling a million things. But in today's tech-driven world, staying on top of our game means continuously adding new tools to our belt. For me, that meant facing the daunting task of learning to code.

Why coding, you ask? Well, I realized that to really get what our dev team was talking about (and to stop nodding along while secretly Googling terms under the table), I needed to speak their language. Plus, understanding the tech side has helped me make better decisions and estimate timelines more accurately. Win-win, right?

But here's the kicker: learning something completely new, especially something as complex as coding, while managing a full-time PM role is… challenging, to say the least.

My Learning Roadblocks

Before I dive into what worked for me, let's talk about what didn't. My biggest enemies? Procrastination and distraction. I'd sit down to learn, and suddenly my apartment needed cleaning, or my Instagram feed needed checking, or I just had to respond to that non-urgent email right this second.

Sound familiar? I thought so.

Game-Changing Techniques That Saved My Sanity

After a lot of trial and error (emphasis on the error), I stumbled upon some techniques that actually made a difference. Here's what worked for me:

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AI-generated image of Pomodoro technique in practice

1. The Pomodoro Technique: My New Best Friend

This time management method is simple but effective. Here's how I use it:

  • Set a timer for 25 minutes and focus solely on learning during that time.
  • Take a 5-minute break. (I usually use this time to refill my coffee or do a quick stretch.)
  • Repeat.
  • After four "pomodoros," take a longer break (15–30 minutes).

Why it works: It breaks the intimidating task of "learn to code" into manageable chunks. Plus, knowing I only have to focus for 25 minutes makes it easier to get started.

Real talk: Some days, I only manage one or two pomodoros. And that's okay. Progress is progress.

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AI-generated image of Javascript mindmap — Midjourney

2. Mind Mapping: Making Sense of the Chaos

Remember those spider diagrams we used to make in school? Turns out, they're pretty powerful for adult learning too. Here's my process:

- Start with a central concept (e.g., "JavaScript Basics"). - Branch out with related subtopics. - Use colors, doodles, whatever helps make it stick.

Why it works: It helps me see how different coding concepts connect, making it easier to grasp the big picture. Plus, it's a great way to review what I've learned quickly.

Pro tip: I use a big whiteboard in my home office for this. It's satisfying to see it fill up over time, and it's a constant visual reminder of how far I've come.

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Photo by Filip Mroz on Unsplash

3. The "Walk and Learn" Method

This one's a game-changer. After a focused learning session, I go for a walk around my neighborhood. No podcasts, no phone calls, just me and my thoughts.

Why it works: It gives my brain time to process what I've learned. Often, I'll have "aha!" moments about coding problems I was stuck on earlier. Plus, the exercise boosts my mood and energy levels.

Bonus: My step count has never been better!

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Photo by bruce mars on Unsplash

4. Sleep: The Unsung Hero of Learning

I used to think I could sacrifice sleep to squeeze in more learning time. Spoiler alert: it backfired spectacularly. Now, I prioritize getting 7–8 hours of sleep a night.

Why it works: My brain actually consolidates what I've learned during sleep. Plus, I'm much more focused and productive during my waking hours.

Confession: This is still the hardest one for me to stick to consistently, especially when deadlines loom. But I've noticed a huge difference in my learning (and general well-being) when I do.

Bringing It All Together

So, how do I fit all this into my hectic PM life? Here's what works for me:

1. Block out learning time: It goes in my calendar like any other important meeting. 2. Learn in context: I try to apply what I'm learning to real work scenarios. Recently, I used my budding Python skills to analyze some product usage data. It wasn't pretty, but it worked! 3. Buddy up: I've started having weekly coding sessions with one of our junior devs. It's motivating, and I get instant feedback. 4. Share the knowledge: I've started a small "PM Tech Skills" group at work where we share what we're learning. Teaching others really cements my own understanding. 5. Celebrate small wins: Completed a tutorial? Time for a victory dance (or at least a fancy coffee).

The Road Ahead

Look, I'm not going to pretend this journey has been all smooth sailing. There have been frustrating moments, times when I questioned why I was putting myself through this, and days when the only code I wrote was ordering takeout on an app.

But you know what? It's been worth it. Not only am I more effective in my role, but I've also rekindled that love for learning that drew me to product management in the first place.

So, to all my fellow PMs out there looking to level up their skills: you've got this. Take it one pomodoro at a time, draw those mind maps, take those walks, and for goodness sake, get some sleep.

What about you? What new skills are you tackling? Any learning hacks you swear by? Drop a comment below — I'd love to hear your stories and maybe steal a few tips for my own learning journey!

Remember, we're all in this crazy, ever-changing product world together. Keep learning, keep growing, and don't forget to enjoy the ride.

Liked the insights? Clap, share, and spread the wisdom! Your product journey awaits! 🚀🌊

About the Author: Oscar Ibars is a tech enthusiast, writer, and keen observer of the digital landscape. Passionate about innovation and change, Oscar believes in the power of technology to transform lives.

This article was written with the assistance of WriterGenie.ai, the premiere AI assistant tool to empower writers to produce original, quality content at scale.