Should I Pursue a PhD at my stage in life?

The question of whether to pursue a PhD is one that often weighs on the minds of high-achievers in mid or late career, contemplating a shift from their current endeavours. Earning a PhD is a significant undertaking, integral to the world of academia, and fundamentally aimed at propelling progress and advancing the collective knowledge of humanity. Before embarking on this journey, there are several considerations to reflect upon:

1. A PhD typically requires intellectual thoroughness and a master's degree in a related discipline to be eligible to enrol in a university.
2. The journey can be frustrating at times filled with ups and downs, along with the uncertainty of uncovering the unknown. This applies to all innovation and creative thinking.
3. Research can be a solitary pursuit. While there's collaboration with fellow researchers, much of the creation of innovative insights is done alone at your desk. Consider whether this aligns with your personality and working style.
4. It's crucial to maintain academic integrity by avoiding plagiarism, refraining from hiring ghostwriters, and resisting the temptation to rely excessively on AI tools like ChatGPT. Such shortcuts can nullify your hard work.
5. Staying closely connected with your supervisor and fellow students is especially important when transitioning from the business world into academia.
6. Some mature students enter a PhD program with a clear idea on their research-topic. Experience and industry expertise is oftentimes an advantage. For the more risk-averse, it might be easier to contribute to an existing research-program and compile domain overviews and unify competing theories etc.
7. Following the rigorous scientific methodologies and academic conventions of communication and writing is crucial. Scientific standards are meant to ensure the relevance of your work in the context of existing research and contributing to the overall mission: advancing humanity's knowledge.

In short, pursuing a PhD is a rewarding and intellectually stimulating journey for those with the patience and stamina to delve deeply into their chosen subject. It requires a sense of adventure and creativity, to make the 3-5 years enjoyable. However, if you have a family or a partner, it may demand some sacrifices from them as well.

Is it worth it? Absolutely yes if you do it for your genuine intellectual quests. If you seek some sort of social acceptance and don't plan on a academic career, a PhD is still highly respected in many countries. For example, in Germany, it's common for board members and other leadership positions to hold PhDs, and there's even a trend of individuals earning multiple PhD titles.

If pursuing a PhD seems daunting, you might consider a one-year degree or course, either out of interest or to prepare for a career change in your later years. Universities and other institutions offer numerous options. While a PhD program should not come with significant costs, master's and training programs often do have fees, which can vary by location.

Places like Europe, France, and Germany offer relatively affordable options, though language skills may be required. Remote programs exist as well; the key is to balance your resources and goals. Consultants and institutions are available to guide you in planning your future career, however, we recommend to do your own research, after all this is what you chose to do anyways. Ask yourself what you truly desire from this commitment.

In general, embracing new challenges and learning is a wonderful endeavour. We wholeheartedly encourage you in whichever journey you choose.