Getting back in the saddle

It’s been a long time.

I find it hard to believe that it has been almost 5 years since I last really thought about my place within the Instructional Design world. In other words, nearly 5 years since I stopped and considered what am I doing, and why am I doing it?

Now, that’s not to say that I didn’t ever pause and contemplate my job, my role within education, or what legacy I was leaving behind. However, it’s far to easy to get buried under a mountain of work, where your only driving goal is to get things done. There’s a sense of fulfillment in that, even if the immediacy of the next task makes the joy very fleeting.

Right now though, I find myself with the chance to actually step back and critique what it is that I do with my time, my talents, and my energy. It’s exciting to think that I get to reset my career and move in a direction of my own choosing.

So here I am, once again exploring the world of Instructional Design, and what part I want to play in it. It’s certainly daunting, as there are so many other people who seem to be far more accomplished than I am. At the same time, there’s a treasure trove of resources out there as well – and that is absolutely wonderful. 

I’m simply amazed at how many Instruction Designers have gone out of their way to compile resources for other IDers who are trying to break into the ranks; or are trying to establish themselves more fully. One of the best out there, and which I was directed to by a colleague, is Dear Instructional Designer (https://dearinstructionaldesigner.simplecast.fm/). This site contains not only advice, but also an entire series of podcasts directed at new Instructional Designers. A real treasure trove!

Resources like that are great, as it’s one thing to say you want to get back in the saddle, and yet another to actually climb up there and start moving. Getting a helping hand from someone who has walked the path already is encouraging, and it shows that what is possible.

The only thing left now is to get out there and do it.

The times, they are a changing…

Thanks for stopping by! If this is your first time on Librarian Owl, let me extend a hearty welcome. Alternatively, if you have been here in the past, thanks for stopping by again.

As you can see, it’s been a while since my last post. However, that will soon be changing. As re-enter the world of Freelance Instructional Designer, I plan on blogging my journey, thoughts, successes, and failures. So, consider this an invitation to come along for the journey.

If you’re so inclined, I’d love to hear from you either in the comments below, or via a private message using the form found on the Contact Info page.

Talk to you soon!

Ryan