Q I am 35 and have been in the civil service for nine years. I've just completed my diploma in business. I am considering pursuing a degree in the near future, but by the time I graduate, I would be past 40.

Is it advisable for me to go ahead? Is it too late to make a career switch in my 40s if I have completed my degree then, or should I should remain in the civil service until I retire?

A There are two points that I feel need clarification. The first is that the Singapore Civil Service has undergone many changes, and high on its current agenda is the need to retain and reward talented and dedicated staff.

In my view, remaining in the civil service, even after you have earned a degree and reached your 40s, should be high on your list of choices. After all, the grass usually seems greener on the other side but often isn't.

The second point is that you should not set yourself a target of 'achieving it all' by the time you reach your 40s. Instead, you should gear yourself towards targets that will change and evolve with time and your needs.

Lifelong learning is here to stay, and the need for staff to update their skills through higher education will remain a priority in the workplace. Remember KFC founder Colonel Harland Sanders became successful only in his 60s.

I think the more important issue at this point is whether the course you're thinking of taking will help you realise your fullest potential. Does it fit in with your strengths? You should not strive to get a degree just to get an increase in salary.

Colin Ong TS
Managing Director
MR=MC Consulting
www.mrmc.com.sg

This article was first published in The Straits Times on January 18, 2009.