I say this with absolute sincerity --
In my career thus far I learned the most from a former boss named Ian -- more times than I can count he put me in positions where I had to become an expert overnight (I didn't even want to learn lisp -- I thought it goofy, clunky), the value of high intensity self directed study, that I had to be bold, even brazen about my skills or no one would take me seriously and that ultimately, I could make three times as much money by working for someone else.
As for these forums, I can honestly say the most learning occurs when you attempt to share the little bit of skill you have in a way that's meaningful to others. Want to learn? Try to teach. Unexpected side effect: It's plain fun and rewarding in a way I can't quite describe, but I love it. I wish I could do it full time and still afford to buy guitar toys and support my wife.