Second Careers In Midlife Or Retirement: What Options Are Most Important To You?

When you think about second careers, do you know what you want?

• Do you want to do something completely different?
• Are you looking for more independence?
• Do you want the chance to be more creative?
• Would you like to work for a company whose values you respect?

Making the transition to second careers is becoming common for people in their 40's, 50's, and 60's. Studies show that people are making 3 to 5 major career changes - not just job changes - in their lifetime. And the newest predictions are that people will make at least 5 to 7 major career changes in the near future.

Money may still be a strong consideration for you when changing careers. But you may also be looking for a way to feel more engaged in your work the second time around. Here are four of the most common wishes people have when looking at second careers.

Transform Your Interest Or Hobby Into A Career

Is there something you've always wanted to do? Maybe there's a way you can turn a special interest or hobby into a career. Midlife or retirement careers can be a way for you to express your creativity and find more enjoyment in your work. You might even wish to pursue more than one interest at the same time.

It's important to let yourself think in terms of possibilities. Take some time to brainstorm ideas and think outside the box. For example, you may be interested in making money from your gardening hobby.

Depending on your interests and skills, you could... sell plants, design flower arrangements, teach horticulture classes, speak to community groups about how to create an eco-friendly garden, sell your own design services, or write articles for magazines. How many more ideas can you come up with?

More Flexibility At Work

Do you wish you had more time for your family? Or just for you? Maybe you've been putting in well over 40 hours a week, and you're thinking it's time to get your life back. You might be interested in flexible work arrangements, such as a part-time job, job sharing, telecommuting, a shorter work week, or flex time.

Many believe that with more Baby Boomers planning to stay in the workforce, plus the increasing costs of commuting, more employers will be forced to offer more flexible work options. For now, though, you can learn some tips for how to negotiate alternative work arrangements with your employer.

Autonomy And Freedom

Are you looking for more freedom and the chance to do things on your own terms? Self-employment or even starting your own business could be for you. The idea of not having to answer to anyone else can be very attractive, but it's important for you to understand what's involved in working for yourself.

When looking at self-employment opportunities, you need to be prepared to:

• have a less predictable income
• feel isolated at times
• learn how to market your services or business
• be persistent in the face of self-doubts
• handle or outsource administrative tasks

And the upside of self-employment? You get to create a business or lifework that reflects your values and your personality.

Work For A Company That Cares

What if you want to remain in the corporate world, but would like to be able to express your values in your work? Then it becomes important to find a company whose values match yours. When your values are aligned with those at your workplace, you can be who you really are. You no longer have to play a role or compromise yourself in any way.

Workplace spirituality is a recent movement that looks at spirituality in a broad sense, and emphasizes:

• a more caring work environment
• values and ethics
• service to others and the planet
• honoring each person's strengths and life purpose
• the opportunity to grow and contribute in a meaningful way

Whatever options are most important to you, second careers in midlife or retirement offer you a way to do what's best for you, this time around.

Return from Second Careers to Career Change Pathways home page