The dreaded midlife crisis. It’s a time of change as your roles in every part of life seem to be changing. Maybe you’re realizing that as you’re getting closer to retirement, you still haven’t had a chance to accomplish some of your career-related dreams.No matter what your age, you still want to love what you do, how you do it, who you do it for and with. Here are tips on how to overcome a midlife career crisis.
Mid-life can be a time of crisis or transition – maybe even both, depending on how you look at it. Problem or opportunity? A grieving process can take place as you leave some parts of your identity behind. That includes any changes you decide to make in your career, whether you’re making a minor adjustment or dumping it all for a life-changing move.
If you read our post about the quarter life crisis, some of the same points will ring true for you. The difference is that you have a solid career behind you and are probably at the top of your game. So, you wonder why you’re not happy at work anymore?
Because you’re not that same person who started out on your career path. You probably did what you were supposed to do rather than what you really wanted to do. You followed the rules. You played the game. Now, your life looks different. Your priorities are different. And you want more.
We don’t blame you.
To address your job-related mid-life crisis, our tips are the same as they were for quarter lifers (get clear, find where you belong, believe). Plus, we’ll add a couple more:
- Change isn’t easy – People are probably used to you doing things a certain way. Now that you’re about to change all that, get ready for some friction. Even you will doubt your move at times. Trust your passion. It will guide you in the right direction.
- Create a new tribe – Surround yourself with people who inspire and support the changes you’re making. Assume that this might mean adding new friends and mentors. You may even consider hiring a coach or therapist you trust. Keep the momentum going.
You’ve paid your dues. Now it’s time to follow your dreams. By mid-life, you’ve got talent, experience, and wisdom galore. What work will you do with it next? Forget about crisis. Transition to career happiness – starting today.