In the past, it was common to take a job and have it for life. This is no longer considered a trend and the average person now has at least a dozen jobs throughout their working life. This is a good thing for many people.
After all, you select your first career when you finish your education, and you are still young. For some, this means following a passion that will last for a lifetime. But, for most people, it means taking a job because you’re not sure what you want to do with your life. If you keep working this job you will ultimately become disillusioned with the job and feel stuck, going nowhere.
That’s when it’s time to change jobs, there are so many career opportunities out there! You’re not alone. Many people have changed careers successfully in their 40s and older, just look at Samuel L. Jackson, he didn’t start acting until he was in his 30s and got his big break in his mid-40s.
Here’s what you need to do to change careers
Consider Your Goals
It is normal for people’s priorities to change as they age. It’s no longer all about the money as many people in their 40s are more interested in how valuable their time is.
That’s critical when considering your career. It’s time to think about what you want from life and what really matters to you.
This will help you decide what type of career path you want to follow, whether it’s creative, management, or analytical.
Get Qualified
If you’re changing career in your 40s then you’re probably going up against people with plenty of experience. However, many of these people will not have kept their qualifications up to date. This is where you can boost the possibilities open to you. Start by looking at these business courses, it will help you get the skills and the right mindset for your career change.
Tap Your Existing Network
Even though you want to change your career it is worth talking to friends, colleagues, and even any current bosses. They will all have contacts, and you never know where an opportunity can come from. The advantage you have here is that these people have worked with you and probably like you.
If they reach out to a contact on your behalf, then you’re already coming with good references.
In addition, everyone you know will know about your new career and this will help them to recommend you if the opportunity arises.
Believe In Yourself
You’re in your 40s which means you’re still young enough and energetic enough to do anything. All you have to do is believe in yourself. By doing so you’ll find it much easier to make a success of your chosen career. After all, how can you expect others to believe in you if you don’t believe in yourself?
The Bottom Line
If you’re looking to change careers, then you need to try. The best approach is not to burn bridges within your existing career, and you’ll always have a fallback position. You’ll regret it if you don’t try changing careers.