At 55, Susan found herself at a crossroads, having spent the last 30 years working as an accountant in a large corporation. With her children grown and her mortgage paid off, she was looking for a new challenge, but was unsure if she should pivot to a completely new career or renew her existing one. Researchers at Harvard have found that this is a common dilemma for people in this age group, with many seeking a sense of purpose and fulfillment in their work.
## Introduction to Career Pivots A career pivot involves making a significant change in one's career, often to a completely new field or industry. This can be a daunting task, especially for those who have spent decades building a reputation and skills in a particular area. However, a 2023 Lancet study found that making a career change after 50 can have numerous health benefits, including reduced stress and increased sense of purpose. * **Career Pivot**: a significant change in one's career, often to a completely new field or industry * **Transferable Skills**: skills that are valuable in multiple careers, such as communication, problem-solving, and leadership * **Industry Trends**: the latest developments and advancements in a particular industry or field
## Benefits of Career Renewals On the other hand, a career renewal involves revitalizing one's existing career, often by taking on new challenges, learning new skills, or pursuing new opportunities within the same field. This approach can be less disruptive than a career pivot, and can allow individuals to build on their existing experience and expertise. The Whitehall II cohort found that career renewal can lead to increased job satisfaction and engagement, as well as improved overall well-being. * **Career Renewal**: the process of revitalizing one's existing career, often by taking on new challenges or learning new skills * **Professional Development**: the process of ongoing learning and skill-building, often through courses, workshops, or conferences * **Mentorship**: the practice of guiding and supporting others in their career development, often through one-on-one relationships or group programs
## Assessing Your Career Options When considering a career pivot or renewal, it's essential to assess your options carefully. This involves reflecting on your values, interests, and strengths, as well as exploring different career paths and opportunities. The [Career Intelligence test](https://50plushub.com/careers) can be a useful tool in this process, providing a cognitive plus personality assessment that maps your strengths to specific second-act career paths. * **Self-Assessment**: the process of reflecting on your values, interests, and strengths * **Career Exploration**: the process of researching and exploring different career paths and opportunities * **Networking**: the practice of building relationships and connections with others in your industry or field
## Creating a Career Development Plan Once you've assessed your options, it's time to create a career development plan. This involves setting clear goals and objectives, as well as identifying the steps you need to take to achieve them. Researchers at Stanford have found that having a clear plan can increase motivation and focus, and can help you stay on track as you work towards your goals. * **Goal-Setting**: the process of setting clear and achievable goals * **Action Planning**: the process of identifying the steps you need to take to achieve your goals * **Accountability**: the practice of tracking your progress and holding yourself accountable for your actions
## Overcoming Common Challenges Making a career change after 50 can be challenging, and it's common to encounter obstacles along the way. However, with the right mindset and support, it's possible to overcome these challenges and achieve your goals. **Want to find your second-act career match?** [Take the Career Intelligence test →](https://50plushub.com/careers) * **Ageism**: the practice of discriminating against individuals based on their age * **Imposter Syndrome**: the feeling of inadequacy or self-doubt that can hold you back from pursuing your goals * **Lack of Direction**: the feeling of uncertainty or confusion about your career path or goals
## Staying Adaptable and Open-Minded Finally, it's essential to stay adaptable and open-minded as you navigate your career change. This involves being willing to learn and grow, as well as being open to new opportunities and experiences. A 2022 study published in the Journal of Vocational Behavior found that individuals who are more adaptable and open-minded tend to have greater career satisfaction and success. * **Lifelong Learning**: the practice of ongoing learning and skill-building throughout your career * **Flexibility**: the ability to adapt to changing circumstances and priorities * **Resilience**: the ability to bounce back from setbacks and challenges
## Bottom Line In conclusion, making a career change after 50 requires careful consideration and planning. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind: 1. **Assess your options carefully**: take the time to reflect on your values, interests, and strengths, and explore different career paths and opportunities. 2. **Create a career development plan**: set clear goals and objectives, and identify the steps you need to take to achieve them. 3. **Stay adaptable and open-minded**: be willing to learn and grow, and be open to new opportunities and experiences. 4. **Overcome common challenges**: don't be held back by ageism, imposter syndrome, or lack of direction - instead, focus on building your confidence and skills. 5. **Find your second-act career match**: [Take the Career Intelligence test](https://50plushub.com/careers) to discover your strengths and map them to specific career paths.