Closing the loop

I’ve got to be honest, I've put off taking my architecture licensing exams for 20 years. I always told myself I didn’t need it. The truth is, in my current role, I probably don’t. But it’s always been there, quietly nipping at me. Unfinished business.

Every time I thought about not having an architectural license, it didn’t sit well. What really held me back wasn’t the studying, it was time. Not “finding” the time, but the fear of spending countless hours when life already feels short. Classic midlife crisis stuff (don’t worry, I’m good).

Then in June, a conversation with my friend Dave (an architect who had just passed his exams) lit a fire under me. I realized this wasn’t about necessity. This was about closing a chapter. I don’t care if I ever actually use the license. I just need to finish this book and move forward.

So, I made a decision: two hours of studying every day, no breaks, no excuses. And last weekend, I took my first exam (out of six) … and passed.

That little victory has given me more motivation than I’ve felt in a long time. I can do this. I’m not so dumb after all.

And here’s the unexpected part: the studying itself has been rewarding. I’m learning things I should’ve locked in years ago like how contracts really work, how construction and design teams are structured, how to handle client requests for additional services. I’m diving deep into both the business and the technical sides of architecture, all the way down to waterproofing details.

Instead of burning hours on TV, I’m investing that time in self-improvement. You’re never too old to grow. In fact, one of the qualities I admire most in candidates is when they share how they’re pushing themselves outside of work, whether it’s studies, hobbies, or new skills. It shows proactivity. It shows reinvention.

For me, this is that reinvention. It’s not about a license on the wall. It’s about proving to myself that I can close this loop.

And I will.