Create a Personal Curriculum (Without Turning It Into Homework) - The Amy Porterfield Show Recap

Podcast: The Amy Porterfield Show

Published: 2026-01-14

Duration: 41 min

Summary

In this episode, Amy Porterfield introduces the concept of a personal curriculum, emphasizing intentional self-learning without the rigidity of traditional education. She encourages listeners to create a relaxed and enjoyable approach to personal development that avoids overwhelming to-do lists.

What Happened

Amy Porterfield kicks off the episode by discussing her personal journey into self-learning, inspired by a trend she discovered on social media. She describes the idea of a personal curriculum as a way to focus on intentional learning, drawing from her background in creating educational curricula. Amy acknowledges that while the traditional academic approach feels too rigid for her, she appreciates the structure it offers for self-study. She highlights how many women are embracing this concept on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, sharing their learning goals and methods for self-education.

Transitioning from her observations, Amy shares her own reimagined approach to a personal curriculum, which she plans to execute on a quarterly basis rather than monthly to reduce pressure. She outlines three key categories she will focus on: something she wants to learn more about, something she is curious about, and something that moves her. By doing so, she aims to create a sustainable and enjoyable learning experience that aligns with her personal and professional growth without feeling like homework. The episode provides listeners with a framework to design their own personal curriculums, emphasizing the importance of enjoying the learning process while also striving for self-improvement.

Key Insights

Key Questions Answered

What is a personal curriculum?

A personal curriculum is a structured yet flexible approach to self-learning that allows individuals to focus on specific areas of interest or development. Amy Porterfield explains that the idea is inspired by traditional educational models but is tailored for personal enjoyment and growth. It emphasizes choosing topics that resonate personally, rather than adhering to a rigid academic structure.

How can I create my own personal curriculum?

To create a personal curriculum, Amy suggests identifying three categories: something you want to learn more about, something that piques your curiosity, and something that inspires you. This approach helps to shape a focused learning experience that feels less daunting. By selecting a quarterly timeline, learners can set manageable goals and enjoy the process of discovery.

Why choose a quarterly approach to self-learning?

Amy chooses a quarterly approach because it reduces the pressure that often comes with monthly goals. She acknowledges that a monthly schedule can feel overwhelming, especially with other responsibilities. By extending the timeline to three months, she believes individuals can integrate learning into their lives more seamlessly, allowing for deeper exploration without the stress of a tight deadline.

What topics can I include in my personal curriculum?

Your personal curriculum can include a diverse range of topics based on your interests and aspirations. Amy shares examples such as learning a new language, gardening, or exploring historical events. The key is to choose subjects that not only educate but also excite and motivate you to engage in the learning process.

How can I ensure my personal curriculum remains enjoyable?

To keep your personal curriculum enjoyable, Amy stresses the importance of intentionality and flexibility. She recommends steering clear of rigid academic structures and instead crafting a learning experience that feels relaxed and supportive. By focusing on topics that genuinely interest you and setting realistic goals, the process of self-learning can transform into a fulfilling journey rather than a chore.