Instead of another clever book, back to university.

When development stalls, it can help to change roles. From trainer to student.

Things were going reasonably well. Work kept moving. Yet I wasn’t sure where to take my own development next. Another course? Another book? Every TED talk ever recorded?

Eventually I decided to meet the people who write those clever books. I returned to university. In 2021, I completed my bachelor’s degree in adult education and looked forward to continuing.

It was quite a ride. It also reminded me that becoming a student again isn’t a step backwards. You get reacquainted with uncertainty, assignments, deadlines and the pleasure of finally understanding something.

I’m grateful for the chance to study again as an adult. And quietly delighted to discover that good work can earn a merit scholarship even in your forties. Learning hasn’t put an age limit in its calendar.