Could a Midlife Career Change be For You?
We all have those days (or maybe it’s more like months) where we drag ourselves into work, wondering what the point is. Maybe you don’t feel challenged anymore, or you’re not using the skills for which you went to school. Maybe you’re just bored. If these feelings resonate, then a midlife career change might be just what you need. Here are a few things to consider if you’re thinking about making a change.
When to Make the Change
It's not uncommon to feel dissatisfied with your career at some point in your life. In fact, many people go through several different career changes before finding a job that is the perfect fit. If you're thinking about making a change, you're not alone. Here are three signs that could mean it’s time to change.
1. You're Constantly Counting Down the Days Until the Weekend
If you find yourself eagerly awaiting the weekend from the moment you walk into the office on Monday morning, it's a sign that you're not thrilled with your current situation. A job should offer some enjoyment and a sense of satisfaction, even if it's not your dream job. If you dread going to work every day, it might be time to make a change.
2. Your Skills are Going to Waste
If you find that your skills are no longer being utilized in your current position or that you're not able to learn and grow in your role, it's time to start looking for something new. Your career should offer opportunities for growth so that you can continue to develop your skills and knowledge. Otherwise, you'll quickly become stagnant and bored.
3. You Have Trouble Motivating Yourself
It's normal to have off days where you don't feel like working, but if you're struggling to motivate yourself on a regular basis, it's definitely time for a change. A lack of motivation can lead to subpar work, which can negatively impact your career in the long run. If you find yourself struggling to keep up with your workload or meet deadlines, it's probably time to start considering other options.
How to Make the Change
First, take an inventory of your skills and experience. What are you good at, including “soft skills” that may not be readily apparent to others? What do you enjoy doing? What are your strengths? Answering these questions will help you zero in on the right career path. Once you have an idea of what you want to do, it’s time to do your research. Check out job postings and see what kinds of qualifications employers are looking for in various positions. If you don’t have the necessary experience or education, consider training or going back to school. Look to learn more about what you need to do to obtain the right qualifications.
And last, but not least, take the plunge! Making a midlife career change can be daunting, but also incredibly rewarding. You might be surprised at how quickly you adjust to your new role – and how good it feels to love what you do again. Many people pivot numerous times during the span of their working lives. Life is too short to stay stuck in something you do not enjoy.