I've had the challenge of keeping up my SQL Server skills while working a job primarily outside of the SQL Server realm. My current position deals with Active Directory, server and perimeter security, and infrastructure architecture. Therefore, I've had to pick and choose on the SQL Server side what I really focused on, because it was always during my "personal hours" that I could spend on anything related to SQL Server. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that changes Jan. 1. It's supposed to, but if doesn't, I'll keep doing what I'm doing. Here's what I've done.

As Steve indicated, you're best served learning the basics for SQL Server and then focusing on what you're most passionate about. If you're a SQL Server DBA, you should understand logins and users, roles, the basics of securables and permissions, and you should be able to do backups and restores and understand the different models. Those are the basics. And everything else typically comes back to these things.

Once you've got the basics, figure out what you really like. This may take some "playing." For me, I have a strong background in security. So focusing on SQL Server security and in the database engine in general is where I've spent most of my available time. I've also spent some time looking at SSRS and building basic reports. Nothing fancy. I've taken a course on SSAS but I've not put those skills into any sort of practice. And I looked at the basics of SSIS but again, nothing in depth.

I'm happy with where I've been and the SQL Server security knowledge has gotten me a couple of writing opportunities, a chance to do some videos on JumpStartTV, and some speaking opportunities at user groups and SQL Saturdays. As I move back into a SQL Server centric role, I know I will work a lot more on the SSIS side, and potentially SSAS as well. But I love the intricacies of SQL Server security and the options we have available so I'll always put time there. I know folks who have done the same with SSAS, SSRS, and SSIS and have found good career options, great community opportunities, and fulfillment as far as intellectual challenge is concerned. The key point every one of them focused on was passion. They found their passion and drilled in. That's the best advice I've heard and it's what I follow.