We are working longer hours and until we are older, so perhaps it is unsurprising that more people are considering a career change in their forties and fifties. If you have been thinking about swapping your current job for something different, this could help you decide whether it is the right option.
A Change is as Good as a Rest
When you have been working in one field for a long time, it can get dull and repetitive. Days can go slowly when you have lost interest, which can be an indicator that it’s time to look for a fresh challenge. A new job could give you the impetus you need and bring back job satisfaction you’ve been lacking.
Develop New Skills
If the last time you studied was at school or college, you might be ready to learn something new.
Moving into teaching is popular with people as they reach midlife, especially as people become more confident and have experience of assisting their own children through education.
If you have a degree already, studying for a masters in secondary education online can be an ideal way to move into the teaching profession.
Meet New People
For many people, work is a social time. Whether you struggle to collaborate with your current team or are simply ready to meet new people, changing your career can be a good way to broaden your social circle.
Venturing into a completely new area can give a fresh perspective and introduce you to people with different views and life experiences, enhancing your worldview and making you a more empathetic person.
Follow Different Interests
As we age, our interests change. Perhaps you have developed an interest in modern art or have enjoyed making your own clothes – so why not make your hobby your new career?
The old cliché, ‘if you enjoy what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life,’ may not be true, but having passion for your job and pride in what you do plays a part in your productivity at work, as well as on both your physical and mental health.
Cut the Commute
Our priorities change as we get older. In midlife, many people have caring responsibilities for children and/or elderly parents, which can be time-consuming and emotionally draining. For anyone who also has a high-pressure job, it can be easy to burn out.
Changing your job, even if it is not a complete career change, to reduce daily commuting time is one way of improving your quality of life and allowing you to devote time to what matters most.
Making the decision to pursue a new career path isn’t always easy – there may be time and costs associated with retraining, or financial implications if you are leaving a well-paid job for something with less remuneration.
The thought of starting again can be scary! However, mull over the options and research what is available to you. A new career might be exactly the boost you need.
