In a recent LinkedIn post, Ross Simmonds discusses the critical importance of self-investment in professional development, particularly when facing career plateaus. Simmonds advocates for a proactive approach to learning, urging individuals not to wait for employer approval or hesitate due to cost concerns when seeking to acquire new skills.
Ross Simmonds emphasizes that personal growth can be significantly accelerated through targeted educational investments, even if those investments are made independently. He highlights the potential for online courses to fundamentally alter one’s career path, challenging a common skepticism towards paid educational content.
“Buy a course on your own dime when you’re stuck and don’t wait for approval.”
The Case for Self-Funded Education
Simmonds’s core message centers on the idea that individuals should take ownership of their career trajectory. He argues that waiting for organizational approval for training can lead to stagnation, especially when an employee feels their skills are lacking or their career has hit a wall. As Simmonds points out,
“But don’t be cheap with your own growth.”
This sentiment underscores a belief that personal development is an asset worth financial commitment. The author suggests that the perceived high cost of courses might be a barrier, but the return on investment, in terms of career advancement and expanded opportunities, can be substantial.
Challenging Skepticism Towards Paid Courses
A significant portion of Simmonds’s post addresses the prevalent distrust some individuals have towards paid online courses, often fueled by the perception that they are scams or offer little value. Ross Simmonds counters this by asserting the transformative power of well-chosen educational programs.
“Even online courses can change the trajectory of your life.”
According to Simmonds, the key lies in making a deliberate and informed investment. He encourages readers to view these courses not as expenses, but as strategic tools for personal and professional advancement. The advice encourages a mindset shift, where the potential benefits of enhanced knowledge and skills outweigh the initial financial outlay.
Taking Action for Career Advancement
Simmonds’s advice is a call to action for professionals to be more assertive in their pursuit of knowledge. He implies that the digital age offers accessible resources, and the primary hurdle is often psychological or financial inertia rather than a lack of opportunity.
“Make the investment.”
In essence, Ross Simmonds is advocating for a culture of continuous learning driven by the individual. His post serves as a reminder that while employer-sponsored training is valuable, personal initiative and investment in one’s own education are powerful, often underrated, drivers of career success.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Ross Simmonds on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on January 19, 2026 | View original post on LinkedIn →