Is It Wise to Change Careers After 50?

The thought of going back into the workforce after a period of unemployment, or pursuing a completely new career path can be daunting, especially if you are over the age of 50. But did you know that there are a couple of things that can relieve your anxiety and may even make the entire process an exciting and enjoyable one. If you're seriously considering changing careers after 50, it's important that you consult with a career coach so that you can get the best advice on what you should and shouldn't do.

Below are some of the most important things you need to consider as well:


Identify your skills.


If you've had multiple jobs in your entire life, or you've been laid off in the past, it's likely that you have developed a number of marketable skills already. Come up with a list of all these skills that you've acquired, and pick the ones you're best at so you can better present yourself to potential employers. Make sure you do not take for granted those general skills that are applicable to multiple careers.

Acquire new job skills.


If lack of job skills is keeping you from pursuing a new career path, then you’ve got to do something to acquire new job skills. There are many online training programs you can look at that will help you learn and develop useful job skills that will make you attractive to employers.

Take retirement planning seriously.


If you’re not planning to retire from the workplace early, then you must look for ways to utilize your current skill set for your lifelong dream. If, for example, you are passionate with dancing and you’ve been an educator or teacher all your life, then becoming a dance instructor or an owner of a dance studio is an excellent option.

Look for opportunities to become an entrepreneur.


According to surveys, more and more 60 plus people are finding their success in business. If you believe that you have great leadership skills, and running a team or an entire organization has always been your dream, then there’s no reason why you shouldn’t try to open and run your own business. And if you decide to do so, it’s highly recommended that you get assistance from a business coach.

Bottom Line


We all have different wants and needs in life, and these may change over the years and depending on our life experiences. And regardless of how old you are right now, don’t let your age get in your way of doing greater things. Whether you want to try a new career or you want to establish your own business, a personal coach is someone who can help you become productive and successful.