It's a continuous process to master the art of seeing. Translation is not simply converting words into another language. It's a continuous process to master the art of communication. One year after the first automotive article was published, I was hired by an advertising agency where I learned more about editing, proofreading and packaging raw text into publication-grade documents. Although working with photo models on the go was quite an adrenaline pumping and testosterone producing affair, advertising work soon became too routine.
Translation is an acquired taste.
Translation has never failed to stimulate my insatiable curiosity and enthusiasm to research or consult the experts. There is nothing like finding the right information in the right source at the right time. No two assignments are alike. The learning process should always be at the expense of the translator, not at that of the hapless client or innocent end-users. However, this point should not be an excuse to let monomania and tunnel vision block professional and personal development.