By Liz Carmack
It isn’t uncommon to experience dissatisfaction at some points in your career, but consider it an opportunity. Here are some things to keep in mind during these moments when you may need a change.
“One reason for a mid-career crisis is that too much of your time at work is spent putting out fires and avoiding bad results, instead of pursuing projects with existential value–the kind that makes life worth living.”
Kieran Setiya, Professor of Philosophy at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology
You’re in your 40s or early 50s and feel stuck and uninspired by your work. Your interests have changed, you see no potential for professional growth, or you realize your personal values don’t align with your employer’s. Most days at the office, you ask yourself, “What am I doing here?” Welcome to your mid-career crisis.
“Crisis” may be too strong a term, but it’s commonly used when describing the mid-career discontent many of us experience at this stage of our professional lives. Consider it a pivot point rich with potential.
Here are a few key steps to help you navigate this not uncommon phase of your career.
Consider Why You’re Unsatisfied
Start by examining your past positions and employers.
“Use what you know from the work you have done previously. What did you like? What did you not like? Let that help guide you in determining the type of work, type of environment and type of company you want to work for,” says Amy Heine in How to Make a Mid-Life Career Change.
Next, focus specifically on your current situation. Dig into why you feel stuck and dissatisfied. Maybe you’ll realize you’re not spending enough time on activities that you enjoy.
Make note of these details. Once you get to the root of what’s causing your discontent, you’ll better understand whether you should make big career changes or if smaller tweaks will do.
“One reason for a mid-career crisis is that too much of your time at work is spent putting out fires and avoiding bad results, instead of pursuing projects with existential value–the kind that makes life worth living. The solution is to make time for feel-good activities either in the office—for instance, by starting a pet project you’ve been putting off for years–or outside it, by reviving a favorite hobby or taking up a new one,” writes Kieran Setiya in Facing Your Mid-Career Crisis.
Document Your Career Goals and Skills
Writing down my goals and the steps I need to take to achieve them always helps me set intentions and stay focused. Same with enumerating your set of skills. Don’t take any of your marketable abilities for granted, even those you haven’t used in a while.
“…take a personal inventory of skills, values and interests pertinent to the work you enjoy. Consider times you’ve been successful and think about what you were doing—be it a job, volunteer situation, internship or something else. Determine what skills contributed to your success and how they can apply to various roles you might be interested in,” writes Jamie Birt in 9 Steps to Change Your Career Path at Any Age.
Perhaps you’ve realized that you love where you work, just not what you do. Present a plan to your supervisor that adjusts your responsibilities to meet your new goals as well as your organization’s needs. Your boss may oblige because they don’t want to lose you.
Or maybe your goal is to work for a different company, work in an entirely different industry, or start your own business. Stay focused on why you want this big change and don’t rush out the door yet. Take time to brainstorm possible moves and thoroughly research your options and next steps.
In my 40s, like a lot of other people in mid-life, I felt stuck in my secure but boring job at a state government agency. I’d daydream during breaks that I was no longer in my cubicle, turning engineer-speak into something an average Texan could understand. I yearned for freedom and creative work.
It took two years to figure out my pivot. I met with a career counselor and together we identified new goals and how my skills could support them.
Training may be one of your most important career goals. You may need to expand your skills before making a move.
Rely on and Expand Your Network
Tapping into your network during a mid-career shift can be essential to your success. “Reach out to professionals you trust to put in a good word and keep you aware of opportunities,” writes Birt.
In addition, arrange informational interviews with people already doing the job you want. These are invaluable if you aim to move into a different field. I’ve relied upon them throughout my career. You’ll also expand your network, which is never a bad thing.
“During an informational interview, ask questions about the person’s day-to-day responsibilities and the steps they took to be successful in their career,” writes Genevieve Northrup in How to Make a Midlife Career Change (Plus Jobs to Consider).
No matter where your mid-career crisis is leading you, it’s a good time to take stock of your finances before you make any moves.
Assess Your Financial Situation
If you’ve been with your employer for a while, consider the benefits you will give up when you leave. Is it smart to postpone quitting for a couple of years until you’re vested in its retirement program? Can you roll over your 401k with your current employer into another company’s or into an IRA? Visit with a financial advisor and your HR department to understand your options.
Build up your savings before you take any leap. At the very least, “Most financial experts suggest you need a cash stash equal to six months of expenses … ,” writes Tim Parker in How Much Cash Should I Keep in the Bank.
Don’t Burn Bridges
If you determine your best pivot is to leave your employer, take the high road. Don’t criticize them, or lash out at your boss or coworkers, no matter your grievances. “You should always maintain respectful relationships among current and past coworkers who may be able to offer recommendations for you or point you to a more fulfilling career path in the future,” in Wharton Online’s How to Successfully Navigate a Midlife Career Change and Avoid a Crisis.
Besides, your professional demeanor will set a positive tone for this next, exciting phase of your career.
Liz Carmack is an award-winning writer, editor and author of two nonfiction books published by Texas A&M University Press. She has worked as a communications professional for almost four decades.
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