The years between 35-55 are often called “rush hour” of life, when family and career demands can feel overwhelming. Yet these midlife years are also a common period for reassessing your professional path.
According to survey data, around 50% of working Americans view changing careers as very or somewhat likely in the near future. And an Investor’s Business Daily poll found that 2 out of 3 are considering a career transition.
If you find yourself daydreaming about a midlife career change, you’re not alone. I experienced my own major career shift starting in my 40s when I left my job as an advertising account director to pursue freelancing. It was a big risk at the time, but turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. A decade later in my 50s, I built upon that initial career transition by starting my own online coaching business – something I never could have imagined earlier in life.
But shifting gears midlife is no small decision. Before making any radical moves, it’s wise to carefully evaluate your motivations, goals and backup plans.
Here are 8 key questions to ask yourself if you’re considering a major midlife career change:
1. What’s Driving My Desire for a Career Shift?
Get clear on whether you’re running away from something (toxic workplace, burnout, loss of passion) or being pulled towards a new vision. Knowing the root causes will inform if changing careers is truly best, or if a job change may be enough.
2. What Are My Priorities at This Stage of Life?
Your priorities in your 20s or 30s were likely different than now. Is work-life balance, impact, compensation, flexibility, or another “second half” priority motivating this career transition? Define your non-negotiables.
3. How Strong Is My “Why” for Switching Careers?
Career changes can be very challenging. Having a powerful, emotionally-connected why behind your shift will be crucial motivation. What change do you wish to create or experience in your life?
For me, my “why” for leaving advertising was about gaining autonomy over my schedule. Building the coaching business stemmed from desiring more purposeful work.
4. What Are the Financial Implications?
Look at potential pay cuts, skill retraining costs, tapping savings/retirement accounts. Map out a plan for any income dips or increased expenses during the career transition.
5. What Excites Me Now and How Certain Am I?
Our interests evolve over time. Uncover where your curiosities lie through self-reflection, skill assessments, trying new hobbies to find what currently excites you.
6. What Are the Long-Term Growth Prospects?
While the work may be stimulating now, investigate the long-term potential. Is it a viable career path that can sustain you? Look at job outlooks in the new industry.
7. How Can I Test My New Career Path First?
Find ways to sample your idea through side gigs, freelancing, job shadowing, classes before taking the full career jump. Freelancing allowed me to experience self-employment.
8. What’s My Backup Plan If It Doesn’t Work Out?
Even with preparation, things may not go as expected. Have a backup for your finances, returning to your old career field, or pivoting again if needed.
There’s no perfect formula for a midlife career change, but doing your homework through self-questioning can ensure you don’t make rash decisions you may regret later.
Looking back, I’m grateful I took the risk freelancing in my 40s after years in advertising, then starting a business in my 50s. While challenging, each career transition led to more fulfillment than I could have imagined.
If a midlife career shift is calling you, carefully explore it. The logistics are tough, but a thoughtful career transition can unlock renewed purpose.
Susanne Rieker is the founder of Midlife etc. She moved to Majorca in Spain with her pup Luna, loving the slow island life in the Med. She’s also a business coach, helping women in midlife build a purposeful online business. Follow her on Instagram @susannerieker.
