I did a master's degree in a subject that really interested me (info security). I was very lucky; my employer helped pay for the course, and didn't have to pay

I did a master's degree in a subject that really interested me (info security). I was very lucky; my employer helped pay for the course, and didn't have to pay them back as long as I didn't leave for three years afterwards. Then I did a succession of contracts to gain wider experience. Took a long time I guess to fully transition over, but was totally worth it as far as I'm concerned, and I was learning and growing over the whole period. Probably could have done it faster, but wasn't an issue for me. The main thing I think is to figure out what really interests you or what kind of change you want in your work.