We’re a few weeks into 2023 and it’s still a perfect time to set goals for the year ahead. You may be eager to explore new places, achieve new objectives or learn more skills.

In this guide, we’ll focus on the last thing on that list — learning new skills.

Below, we discuss five skills that can all be studied and learned online, often for free. We explain the benefits these skills can provide and how you can put them to good use to boost your monthly income.

1. Invest in cryptocurrency

The world of cryptocurrency has exploded in popularity. Many people are turning to it as a side hustle or as a serious investment job due to its potential to make money quickly.

If you’re interested in investing in cryptocurrency, check out this guide to the best crypto South Africa has available at the moment. It’ll give you some good tips and advice on where to invest your money and how to hopefully generate a profit.

It’s also worth following some professional investors to see what tips and guidance they have to share.

2. Learn how to code

As the world becomes more computer-focused, one skill that’s surged in demand is the ability to write code. In fact, it’s become so popular that more countries around the globe are introducing it into their education systems.

So, what is coding exactly? In short, it involves writing the language that computers and applications speak and doing so in such a way that they work efficiently and accurately.

These skills can be used to build websites, mobile apps or software, such as case management systems.

In possessing this knowledge, you may be able to:

• Find a new job. Coding skills are in high demand across many industries, from software development to finance, healthcare and law. Knowing how to code can open a wide range of career opportunities, including high-paying jobs with good benefits.
• Set up your own company. Coding skills can be used to create your own products and services, such as a website or mobile app. This can help you bring your ideas to life and help you grow your own business
• Bring greater efficiency to your life. Coding can be used for automating repetitive tasks, which can save you time and increase your efficiency. This can be useful for businesses and organizations that need to process large amounts of data.

3. Learn about copywriting

Copywriting is the art of writing compelling, persuasive and effective marketing and advertising materials. You can use these skills to undertake writing work for others and potentially turn your skills into money.

You can get experience and contracts by signing up for websites such as Upwork, Fiverr and Freelancer.com. Using these sites, you can network and develop longstanding relationships with clients to turn your skill into a career.

4. Learn how to narrate audiobooks

There’s a huge boom in the popularity of audiobooks and podcasts. The demand is so great that there aren’t enough narrators. So, it has the potential to be a lucrative skill to learn. Here are some tips on how to get started:

1. Learn from professional audiobook narrators. Look for resources such as books, podcasts and online tutorials that can provide guidance on how to narrate audiobooks effectively.
2. Practice reading out loud. Practice reading aloud from a variety of texts, including novels, short stories and non-fiction books. Pay attention to your pace, volume and inflection as you read. Record yourself reading and listen back to your recordings to identify areas for improvement.
3. Invest in good recording equipment to ensure you achieve the best quality.

5. Study a new language

The world is becoming a much smaller place. In just a few hours, we can hop on a plane and be on a different continent. To make the most of the opportunities that easier and more accessible travel provides, it may be worth learning a new language.

This can all be done online now, or through mobile apps such as Duolingo, which makes it easier than ever.

Here are some other benefits of learning a new language:

• It can provide new career opportunities. Many companies and organizations value employees who can speak multiple languages, as it allows them to communicate effectively with clients and customers from different countries.
• Personal growth. Learning a new language can improve brain function and delay age-related cognitive decline. It can enhance your problem-solving, memory and multitasking abilities, as well as help you build confidence.