Surprising Reasons I Should’ve Kept Digging in the Dirt (and Why You Might Want to Too)

The Dirty Truth: Why Childhood Curiosity Gets Buried

As kids, we loved digging in the dirt. We were basically little earthworms with pockets, fueled by the thrill of discovery—rocks, bugs, maybe even ancient treasure (a.k.a. someone’s lost keyring).

But somewhere along the way, we were told to grow up. To stop getting dirty. To do “more educational” things. Because, well, digging in the dirt was just that… dirt. Nothing meaningful could come from it, right?

Wrong. So wrong.

When We Stopped Digging and Started “Adulting”

Society (and your parents with their best intentions) hadn’t met archaeologists, paleontologists, or anthropologists. Or maybe they had… and just assumed they wore dusty cardigans and worked in lifeless museums.

I honestly believe many of us would’ve ended up in radically different careers if those mysterious guidance counselor voices hadn’t pushed us toward “sensible” jobs like accounting or insurance sales.

Now that I’m older, greyer, and possibly wiser, I’ve had time to reflect on my career. And if I’m being honest… WTF was I doing?

Chasing something I didn’t care about. Pretending to be interested in meetings. Waiting for coffee breaks like they were spiritual events.

The Moment Everything Changed (Hello, Field Guide Course!)

This past year, I made a bold move. I went “back to school.”
Not the kind with teenage drama and locker smells—but into something that sparked real joy: a Nature Field Guide course.

The change really began back in January 2024, when we launched into a bold new chapter as Irresponsible Adults (you just need to scroll through some of the earlier blog posts to see how it all started). What began as a bit of an experiment in curiosity and freedom has taken us on a journey we never could have planned.

I’ve always loved nature. And let’s face it—birds are better company than some clients I’ve had. It felt like coming home.

Then, BAM! A small section in the course on Historical Human Habitation flipped a switch. Suddenly, all those old forgotten Stone Age lessons became interesting again. Why didn’t I feel this way in school?

Oh right—because society didn’t think ancient culture was cool unless it exploded, scored a try, or won over girls.

So… What Kind of Dirt-Digging Scientist Could I Have Been?

I started reading. A lot. I wanted to understand what kind of scientist I might’ve become if I’d stuck with digging in the dirt.

And what I discovered? Not all “dirt diggers” wear the same hat.

There are two main groups of scientists who study the past:

People who study humans.
People who study everything else that was once alive.

Let’s break that down for the regular folks like me.

Breaking It Down: Archaeologist vs Paleontologist vs Anthropologist

Anthropologists

They study humans—our behaviors, beliefs, and cultural customs (yes, including why we clap after candles go out).

Physical Anthropologists: Study human evolution and biology.
Cultural Anthropologists: Decode our traditions, taboos, and trends.
Archaeologists: A subset of anthropologists, these legends study ancient human life through ruins, tools, cave art, and relics. Think: ancient pottery, not T-Rex bones.

Paleontologists

They deal with life before humans—plants, dinosaurs, marine creatures, and ancient eco-systems.

Vertebrate Paleontologists: Study fossils of creatures with spines.
Invertebrate Paleontologists: Fossils of spineless critters (literally).
Paleobotanists: Plant detectives of the prehistoric world.
Palynologists: Masters of ancient pollen (yes, really).
Micropaleontologists: Into the tiny fossil world.
Ichnologists: Track fossil footprints—CSI for ancient times.
Taphonomists: Study how things decay. Sounds morbid, but fascinating.
Paleoecologists: Reconstruct ancient environments (think: no Wi-Fi or iced coffee).

My Top Contender? Paleoanthropologist (Yes, That’s a Real Word)

These wildcards sit between both worlds—the human, and the almost-human.

They study fossils of early hominids like “Lucy,” the famous pre-human ancestor. Basically, they help us understand how we went from tree-swinging to doom-scrolling.

Could I have been one? Maybe.
Would my school have encouraged it? Unlikely.
Do I regret not knowing about it sooner? Absolutely.

It’s Never Too Late to Start Digging Again

So here I am.
Older, yes. But finally reconnecting with something that feels real.
Whether it’s fossils, forgotten tools, or just muddy boots—digging in the dirt has meaning.

Even if I never become a certified anthropologist, paleontologist, or archaeological rockstar, I’m learning. I’m curious.

And that counts.

Conclusion: A Shoutout to My Inner Earthworm

So what’s the takeaway?

If I’d followed that childhood curiosity—the one that loved dirt under the fingernails—I might have ended up in a completely different profession.
But the joy I feel now, learning about the things I love, proves one thing:

It’s not too late.
Not to learn. Not to explore.
Not to honour the little earthworm inside who just wanted to keep digging.

FAQs: Digging Deeper Into Curiosity

What does “digging in the dirt” really symbolize in this article?
It represents childhood curiosity and the joy of discovery—something often lost as we grow older and become more “sensible.”
What’s the difference between archaeologists and paleontologists?
Archaeologists study human-made artifacts; paleontologists study fossils of plants and animals from prehistoric times.
Can someone start a career in archaeology or paleontology later in life?
Absolutely! Many institutions offer courses for mature students or hobbyists.
What is a paleoanthropologist?
A scientist who studies the fossils of early human ancestors—bridging anthropology and paleontology.
Are there short courses available in these fields?
Yes! Many universities and wildlife organizations offer short, introductory courses in field guiding, anthropology, and paleontology.
How does this relate to mental health or life satisfaction?
Reconnecting with personal interests or childhood passions can boost mental wellness and give renewed purpose.
Is studying history or science still relevant in a tech-driven world?
Yes! Understanding our past helps shape smarter, more informed futures.
I’m not into science—what’s the point for me?
The message here is about curiosity. Whether it’s fossils, music, or painting—exploring what excites you can lead to a more fulfilling life.