A career change at 50 can be both scary and exciting as it brings with it a whole lot of mixed feelings and responses. It can be quite daunting to change careers at this point in time. Factors like age, leaving the comfort-zone and experimenting, learning new skills and competing with youngsters can be some of the deterrents.
However, studies have shown that in today’s times people continue to work well into their 70s, so if you are looking at a career change at 50, it still gives you a good 20 years in your new career. Today, an average of five career changes in one’s lifetime is considered quite the norm. Keeping in mind all these facts, it is easy to get on with your decision of a change in careers at this age.
While planning to change your career at 50, it is good to address some of the following points:
“Why” is an important question to answer and it is best to be honest with yourself.
Study your strengths and weaknesses.
Make a list of the skills and qualifications you can use in your new career. The ‘transferable’ skills can help you kick-start your new career.
Understand your dreams and desires and keep in mind what makes you happy. After all, the whole exercise is in pursuit of that ‘something’ which is missing in your current career.
Adapt a positive attitude. Have a practical and realistic approach especially in matters related to financial as well as job security issues.