Can you make a career change at 40?
Yes you can! I did, but boy was it scary!
Yes, I left behind my professional network, social connections, reputation and skillset that I had built and honed over the course of my professional life. I’ve grown a lot since my first job personally and professionally. I’ve learned how to speak up in meetings, work constructively with difficult team members, keep productive and reinvent myself time and time again over the past 20+ years in the workforce. I definitely had to weigh the pros and cons of such a huge change.
What I’ve Learned:
1. I’m already a Professional – many of my skills were transferable.
2. I still have plenty of time in the workforce as the average retirement age is 67.
3. My mental health thanks me! Less stress equals success!
4. I get to Live My Life, that will bring me more satisfaction with a solid work/life balance.
Things I contemplated before making a change: (after taking a looooong deep breath)
1. I have more responsibilities now vs. when I was 20 just starting out. It’s not just me that I had to consider but also my family.
2. More expenses. A home, a car, utilities, pets, insurance, and the list goes on and on..
3. Had I truly met my professional and personal goals?
4. Information is Power - I did research on what I may want to do and what skills I could bring to the table for any company.
5. I reflected on why I wanted to change and weighed that against what I was hoping to get out of a new career.
The ultimate question now, after 45 days in a new career, is do I regret it and would I go back?
The answer to both is NO! I’m challenged in a new way daily, mentally and emotionally. I’m utilizing skills that I didn’t even realize that I had and learning new ones along the way. If you’re considering making a change yourself don’t hold yourself back if that’s truly what you want to do. The possibilities are endless, you just have to go after them. Sometimes the greatest act of bravery is simply taking that first step towards change. Don’t be afraid to take the leap as the rewards of positive transformation are always worth the risk, it’s never too late!