Navigating a Mid-Life Career Change: Insights from Reddit
Contemplating a mid-life career change can be daunting, especially when the fear of failure and the unknown loom large. However, insights from Reddit users who have successfully transitioned careers offer valuable advice and encouragement.
If you are considering a mid-life career change, check out this article for actionable tips.
Here are some common themes and supporting comments to guide you through this process:
1. Overcoming Fear
Fear is a significant barrier, but many users stress the importance of not letting it hold you back from changing your career. One user, u/theinternetisnice, shared:
“I changed careers at 38, it was terrifying. But, got my associates and new entry-level job at 41 (IT). Kept going and got my bachelors at 44 and masters at 46. I’m 50 now and am in a much better place in life. If I hadn’t started 12 years ago I’d STILL be 50 but wishing I’d actually made the change ages ago.”
Another user, u/CeeAyyBee, added:
“Fear is a horrible advisor. Take the time to assess what is and isn’t working for you. Allow yourself to imagine the life you want. Research and explore what it would take to get there. Then you’ll be prepared to earnestly take stock of your needs, wants, and goals.”
2. Planning and Education
Careful planning and further education are crucial for a successful transition. Users emphasize the value of acquiring new qualifications and skills for a mid-life career change. u/DDzirey shared:
“I retrained from the law into learning and development in my mid-30s – and I’m so so glad that I did. I made sure I got top grades in a professional qualification, picked up tasks in my previous role that would demonstrate capability for the new profession… Once you’ve made the decision and have a plan of action, it’s easy – you just need to go for it!”
3. Age as a Non-Issue
Age should not be seen as a barrier. Many users share that it’s never too late to pursue a new career, and there are plenty of examples to back this up. u/birkenstocksandcode provided some inspirational examples:
“Stan Lee had his first hit comic when he was 39. Martha Stewart published her first cookbook when she was 41. Colonel Sanders franchised KFC at 62. Vera Wang entered fashion at age 40. Donald Fisher started Gap at age 40. Sam Walton made Walmart at age 44.”
4. Leveraging Transferable Skills
Recognizing and utilizing transferable skills can ease the transition into a new field. u/DDzirey noted:
“Think about how you can leverage your current skills for success in your new role. For example, I considered practising L&D within law firms because my knowledge of the profession would have been an asset. As it happened, I ended up in a different specialism but still in professional services.”
5. Networking and Support
Networking and seeking support from professionals in the desired field are crucial steps if you want to change your career in your 40’s and 50’s. u/DDzirey also suggested:
“Leverage anyone in your network (friends, family, colleagues, friend of a friend) who is doing what you are thinking of doing. Have lunch or coffee and chat about the realities of the job, get advice about where to start, what qualifications have currency.”
6. Strategic Career Moves
Being strategic about career moves can lead to better opportunities. This might include taking a step back to move forward or considering lateral moves. u/DDzirey shared:
“I had to take a step back to take two steps forward – a more junior position than I was used to etc. But my previous experience and the fact I’m doing a job I actually really like doing (as well as being strategic about developing myself, building a professional network, and moving roles to gain targeted experience and step up) has meant I’ve climbed the ladder quickly and, 8 years later, I’m more or less where I would have been if I’d started in the profession.”
Encouraging Words and Real-Life Examples
Other users offered simple yet powerful encouragement and real-life examples to motivate those contemplating a career change:
- u/Unionhopefull: “Then do it. Why be unhappy for the rest of your working years? You got a long way to go (25+ years).”
- u/ajsuds: “I’m 57. Worked for the dept of defense for 35 years. I am starting a new career with the veterans administration next week. I’m scared shitless. I’m going from civil engineering to contracting. I could’ve just skated to retirement but I was so bored and unmotivated. I hope this is a good fit for me. Hey you never know! Good luck.”
- u/vexaciousvulcan: “My step dad became a nurse at 51. He recently retired from nursing and I don’t think he regrets doing it at all!”
These comments reflect a supportive community and provide a wealth of advice for anyone considering a mid-life career change. By addressing fears, planning carefully, leveraging transferable skills, and seeking support, a successful career transition is within reach at any age.
