Cultivating A New Career When You’re Over 45

80% of people age 45+ consider changing careers; only 6% actually do. Can you relate to this statistic?

Especially in our changing work climate, security oftentimes is fleeting at best. It can catalyze daydreaming about the “what if” scenarios. What if I could be my own boss? What if my schedule was more flexible? What if I could travel more? What if I had a little freedom?

I think many of us have drifted off into the world of “what ifs” before. The more vital question of all is, what are you going to do about it?

All the hopes and dreams don’t amount to anything except spinning mental wheels without action.

In order to have action, you can’t have fear. The most successful business people that I know have one thing in common, fortitude. That attitude is really an ingrained pattern in how they live their life. There is a fierce determination coupled with daily effort.

I always thought it was confidence that put the “winners” ahead. But the more I study it, not so much. Resilience would be more accurate. There seems to be an understanding amongst entrepreneurs that a lot of “trial and error” occurs before the ROI starts rolling in.

So, my friend, have you thought about making a career switch? Are you ready to walk away from punching a clock, a long commute, or a stuck and lifeless day in the office?

Then, now is your time. There have never been so many opportunities for the solopreneur as there is today. With the booming digital marketing resources, crowdfunding sites, and a plethora of online tools to look like a pro, there is no better time than the present!

Here are some tips to get the ball rolling:

CRYSTALLIZE YOUR PASSIONS

Meaning, get clear about what you want to do. This is the best place to start. Being excited about your new direction is key. It will be the fuel that drives your business venture on a daily basis.

Mind going blank? No worries! Give yourself time to journal it out, make a list of desires and skills and trust your answer will arise.

KNOW WHO YOU ARE GOING TO SERVE

Especially in careers for people over 45, many times, the financial gain is not the most important element in making a change. Making an impact continues to rise to the top as one of the primary desires. As well as, less stress, happiness, expressing creativity, and having more time with family are all key motivating factors.

START NOW

It’s not all or nothing when it comes to cultivating a new career path. This is one of the biggest holdbacks that I see when someone over 45 wants to start their own business. I’ve heard other coaches guide their clients to “Make the leap and go all in.” If you are financially secure, then, by all means, leap away! However, for the client’s that I encounter, the fear of losing their consistent paycheck and health insurance benefits keep them from making any moves, let alone going all in.

Remember, you can start your business as a side-hustle while you are in your current position. Development takes time, building a list takes time, attracting a following on social takes time. These are all critical pieces of the puzzle that need to be in place for a successful business. The good news is, they are all things that you can be chipping away at during “off” times of the week.

IT’S NOT TOO LATE

If you're thinking that you “missed the boat” to accomplish your dream because of your age, think again! Data from the Kauffman Foundation finds that the highest rate of entrepreneurship in America has shifted to the 55 to 64 age group.

You bring experience, wisdom, and a business network from your years in the field. That has tremendous value. You may have to set aside a little time to get up on the new tech, but it’s totally doable. If you have the desire, the drive, and the heart behind your idea, you can achieve it.

Lastly, life is really too precious to be unhappy in your career. We spend over one-third of our existence working. Take a deep breath and cultivate change. You've got this!

Until next time…breathe joy,
Kc

P.S. If you need guidance, book a session with me. My passion is helping solopreneurs develop their business.