Women in the Workplace - Navigating Midlife Career Changes
It’s never too late to change careers, no matter what people tell you. The average person changes jobs more times than you might think. Adopting that fluid mindset for your career makes it easier to find freedom and not feel “stuck” in a particular position.
Maybe you’ve been doing the same thing for years, and you’re ready for a change. Maybe you’re tired of your current workplace environment discriminating against you because you’re a woman. Or, maybe you just need to spread your wings and challenge yourself in a new industry.
Whatever the case, don’t let your age hold you back from navigating a career change. Let’s cover a few tips you can use to make the transition easier and quicker.
Take Your Time
It’s easy to fall into the “I’m not getting any younger” mindset. You might think that you need to move quickly because of your age. But, with that attitude, you could end up selling yourself short, lowering your self-esteem, and settling for a job you don’t really want.
You’re considering a career change for a reason. Think about that reason and the kind of job you’re really looking for. Discover what you truly want and take the time to develop a strategy for it.
Do your research on different careers you might be interested in. Check different position requirements and skills needed, and take a look at the state of the industry. The more educated and prepared you are, the better.
Know Your Worth
If you start to look at the skills and requirements for certain jobs and you’re worried you don’t meet those standards, don’t let it stop you. Maybe it’s been a while since you’ve had any formal training or education, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have the skills necessary for a career change.
Focus on your strengths and understand your value. As you’re putting together a resume or getting ready for an interview, focus on those strengths. Think about how you can market yourself to the hiring manager and focus on your experience.
If you’re looking for a specific career requiring additional training or schooling, don’t be afraid to go after it. You can keep your existing job while in school or a training program and stay up to speed with the necessary requirements for specific paths. Just like it’s never too late to change careers, it’s also never too late to go back to school and become a lifelong learner.
Lean On Your Support System
If you’ve been in your current job for several years, stepping away and trying something new might feel overwhelming. Even though it’s your choice, it’s important to understand that you’re not alone in your decision.
Before you decide to change careers, talk to your family. Express your feelings and what you’re looking for out of a career change. Let them know you need their help and support while you’re going through this transition. You might be surprised by how quickly they step up for you, allowing you to focus on your new job while getting a boost of confidence.
If you know you want to change careers but you’re having a hard time finding one that suits you, circle back. Determine why you wanted to change in the first place. Maybe you’re passionate about your current work, but your work environment is toxic. Maybe you feel like your age is “pressuring” you to try something different.
Whatever the case, make sure you’re changing for the right reason. If you’re worried something deeper is going on beneath the surface, consider reaching out to a mental health professional. You might be dealing with some of the effects of a midlife crisis, but that can be navigated and worked through with the right help.
If you would like to hear more about career changes, or are interested in starting life transitions therapy, please reach out to Nancy today to get started!