1. Finish what you started. Maybe you were you enrolled in college or a training program when something got in the way -- finances, family commitments, health issues or another life event. It's never too late to go back to school and complete your training. If money is an issue, research financial-aid options through your school or check out educational grants and federal student loan programs.
2. Go back to work. Instead of pursuing a fast-track career, perhaps you chose to focus on family commitments such as raising children or being a caregiver. If the time is right for you to enter (or re-enter) the workplace, you may find that a lot has changed. Job training or a degree can help you polish your skills and give you the confidence to compete in the workplace.
3. Get a promotion. Do you have your eye on the next rung of the company ladder? More training or a specialized degree could help you realize your career ambitions. Check with your manager or human resources department first -- many companies pay for job-related training.
4. Change careers. After 10, 20 or even 30 years on the job, you may find yourself longing to do something different. You aren't alone -- universities, technical colleges and training programs are filled with people who want to realize their dreams of a new career.
5. Learn something new. Would you like to play a musical instrument? Learn woodworking? Improve your golf game? No matter what your special interest may be, there's a class to help you increase your knowledge and skills. Education doesn't have to be just about your career.
6. Explore the world. Experienced travelers will tell you that being able to speak the local language adds a new dimension to travel. If current events are your passion, study politics, other cultures, or world religions. Whatever your interests, local community colleges, community centers, or continuing education programs are great places to look for affordable classes that will expand your horizons.
7. Meet new people. Along with the opportunity to learn something new, returning to school puts you in touch with a whole new group of people -- adults like you who want to improve their skills, increase their knowledge, and heighten their sense of accomplishment. You could earn a degree and make new friends at the same time.
8. Lead by example. Want to motivate your child to continue his education? Lead the way by taking yourself back to school -- it's an adventure you both can share. If you are an employer, motivate your staff by enrolling everyone -- including yourself -- in a class that will sharpen their skills and build a sense of teamwork.
9. Fine-tune your brain. Researchers tell us that older adults who exercise their brains -- which includes reading, writing, learning new information, solving problems, and taking part in lively discussions -- age more gracefully and reduce their risk of age-related memory loss or dementia.
10. Fulfill your dream. If you have a dream of higher education and the resources to make it happen -- including time, money and energy -- go for it. Sometimes the best reason to do something is just because you want to.