A New Direction: 4 tips for changing careers in Midlife

Uncategorized

Published on Monday, 18 May 2020 14:55

Last Updated on 18 May 2020

Monica Costa

0 Comments

There is a rising trend of people in the midlife age bracket changing careers. For some, that may seem like changing direction midstream. However, forging a new path at the age of 40 or so isn’t uncommon, nor is it impossible.

Hearing loss makes the idea of changing careers more complicated at any age. If you’re seeking a new career prospect and have hearing loss, get a hearing aid to increase your earning potential.

Even with ‘normal’ hearing, changing jobs in the middle of your life can be scary. What can you do to reduce the stress that comes with such a decision?

Best Jobs Suitable for a Midlife Career Change

There are any number of reasons why someone might want a midlife career change. Their employer may be downsizing or they simply don’t enjoy working at the company any longer.

In some cases, an employee may seek other employment due to relocation or feeling devalued at their current job.

Others simply may want to improve their lives and think changing careers will make them happier. Whatever the reason, some careers are more friendly to a midlife career change than others.

Some of the best career changes to consider midlife are:

• Veterinarian technician
• Massage therapist
• Personal trainer
• Medical billing specialist
• Business administration
• Information technology

Many of those jobs are also feasible with hearing loss as well.

4 Steps to Changing Careers Midlife

Changing a career at any point in your life takes planning. A midlife career change involves more research and motivation than a career change in your 20s.

Here are 4 tips for changing careers in midlife.

1. Figure out which career path to pursue. The first step in changing careers later in life is finding out how long it will take to gain the necessary experience. For example, it would be difficult to become a doctor at 40 or 50 because of the schooling and residency requirements needed.

Your new chosen career should be something you’re passionate about and are willing to throw caution to the wind over.

 

2. Put your skills to good use. It might be time to dust off that college degree you never used or put some of your other hidden talents to use. If you have a specialized skill, that makes it easier to narrow down your new career choices.

 

3. Take the time and effort to learn the skills you need but don’t know. However, if you don’t already possess the necessary skills, you can always learn them. Go back to school or find a social connection with someone in your desired field of study.

 

Many career changes are prompted by networking and using your connections.

4. Revise your budget to include your new career. Before you start your career change journey, it’s essential that you make sure it’s financially possible at this point in your life. How would your new salary compare to your old one and does it fit into your budgetary expenses?

 

A Change Will Do You Good

Regardless of your reason for changing careers, it has the potential to be the best decision of your life. Many people find new careers exciting and fulfilling. Don’t let your age stop you from following your dreams.