Career Change in Midlife? What Am I Thinking?!

So you’re getting close to the Big Five Oh (50) or you’re already well underway and now you’re itching for a change. A BIG change. A career change! Thinking about a career change can generate feelings of curiosity, excitement, and a bit of fear. Ok, maybe a lot of fear. After all, you’ve been working in your chosen field for several years and have even climbed the ladder of success. So why change now?

First let me reassure you, you are not alone in feeling this way. As we progress from our 20s to our 50s, work takes on a deeper meaning. It is less about needing to prove yourself, racing to the top, and making the big bucks (although we don’t stop wanting this altogether) but more about finding work that is meaningful and fulfilling. Time begins to feel more finite and we are drawn to make the most of our window of opportunity. We want to pursue a career and a lifestyle we feel passionate about. One that truly resonates with who we are.

This brings us to the question then, “What should I consider when thinking about a career change?” The following is a list, not a finite list, but one that will hopefully provoke some thought and dialogue within yourself and with others of some key issues to think about when considering a career change:

1- Job change or career change? Let’s start with the basics first. Are you feeling bored, frustrated or unfulfilled in your current position and a change of jobs within the same profession would suffice or are you interested in a different career altogether? For some, a simple shift into a different position can make all the difference. It allows you to utilize your years of experience and expertise within the field but within a different setting. For further information, also read 5 Signs That You May Be Ready for a Job/Career Change.

2- Economic consideration – Will your new career allow you to create or support a lifestyle you desire? In some instances this may involve weighing career satisfaction against financial rewards.

Financial advisor Suzie Orman asks, “if you need to further your education when changing careers, will the cost of additional training and education eat up your retirement savings or will you be able to recoup any school debt you incur after you obtain a job?”

These questions are not meant to discourage you, but to encourage you to consider and weigh both the creative and financial aspects of your career plan.

3- Working hours and lifestyle – Are you looking to work a structured 8-5 job or would you prefer a more flexible schedule? Would you prefer a home-based business/home office rather than commuting? Do you prefer a steady predictable paycheck or can you tolerate some variance in income? What, if any, issues do you need to consider with family, home, kids, or health?

4- Passion – What gets you up and out of bed in the morning and eager to start your day? Have you explored the possibilities of turning your passion into a career? Have you cross paths with someone who is doing what you would like to do?

What are your unique talents or strengths that you can bring to your new career? Remember, this includes years of experience in both career and life. Even if you are considering a completely new career, what you may lack in experience particular to that position may be offset by life experience. Translate your skills of being a CEO of your home to your workplace.

5- Flexibility, determination, and focus – Be flexible when considering a complete career change. You may not be able to start at the top right away, but the journey forward can be oh so rewarding.  Be determined to stay on track and take small but consistent steps to work towards your goal. Focus on where you want to go and don’t give up on your dreams. The path may not always be easy, but it doesn’t mean that is won’t be meaningful, rewarding, or fulfilling in other ways.

As they say, “you’ll never have to work a day in your life, if you do what you love”! Doing what we love each day gives us a sense of purpose, fulfillment, and satisfaction in our lives. A midlife career change may require a bit of courage, but with some focus, lots of support, and small steady steps, you can be on your way. We have but one life to live, make the best of it!