Having eschewed higher education for "real world experience", I have to admit I regret that decision. As valuable as working under small business owners has be

Having eschewed higher education for "real world experience", I have to admit I regret that decision. As valuable as working under small business owners has been, years later I wish I'd learned more about technical aspects such as managing finances or accounting. This could have been learned directly and efficiently in school, freeing energy to focus on actual business method. On the other hand, I am only now mature enough to learn seriously and apply myself towards goals. If only I'd gotten there before my study skills have atrophied. Self teaching myself programming has been both rewarding and frustrating. The bright side is I'm debt free, and can choose any outlet for creative energy. The darker outlook is perpetual catch-up with peers, and somewhat narrow skill sets.