Is it too late to start over?

Hi Deb: 

I just turned 50 and was recently laid off from my job at a company at which I have worked for 25 years. For a long time, I felt like the company defined my identity. Although I no longer feel that way, I have exactly zero desire to go back to work doing the same thing, in the same type of environment, that I spent the last 2 decades in. I feel like I have the unique opportunity to completely reengineer and redefine my life. At the same time, I’m terrified, and I’m hindered by the nagging thought that I’m too old, too set in my ways, too whatever to do it. Do you have any words of wisdom for me? I need an expert opinion here.

Thanks,

Julia

Dear Julia:

Life is a series of changes, not a constant along a continuum. Conventional wisdom posits that it is too late to change careers in your 50s. But the fact that you’re asking the question indicates that you’re not a conventional thinker. There are multiple examples of people making extraordinary advancements and changes in their careers in their 40s, 50s, and beyond. For women, in particular, having, or wanting, to redefine oneself in midlife is not uncommon at all.

I suggest you take a personal inventory about what you want, what you don’t want, and acceptable. What energizes you? What do you need to be effective? What do you do effortlessly? Think about these questions within the context of the current job market. Then look at them through the lens of self-employment. At this point in your life, you’ve probably identified the unique value you bring to the table. Do you want to do that while working for yourself or by working for another corporation? 

With 25+ years of experience, you know what works and what doesn’t work, and you know where your strengths are. You’re no longer trying to figure things out. Now, more than ever, it will be critical to rely upon your network for help. But don’t just look to your network for assistance. There are organizations and people out there who would benefit from your experience, so offer to mentor them. Mentoring is magic and can be the best way to network.

The short answer here is, no, it is not too late. Yes, it is scary and uncertain, but you have the amazing opportunity to define your success and write your own future.

All my best,

Deb