How to Make a Successful Mid or Late Career Change, Part I Build the Plan

Evolution is natural. Plan your mid or late career change now!

Baby Boomers born between 1957 and 1964 held an average of 11.9 jobs from ages 18 to 50 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Boomers are also fueling an increase in career and job change due to the unprecedented rise in “gray divorce” – divorce among those over age 50. And, Pro Publica Inc. reports that in the current post-recession era, new data shows more than half of older U.S. workers are pushed out of longtime jobs before they choose to leave. These are but a few insights into the evolution of career and job change from Stigma to the New Normal.

Take heart! What was formerly a social and career management challenge is now a socially-supported opportunity. The new normal of a rise in mid- and late- career change also signals an increase in self-awareness and capacity as we naturally pass through the normal stages of adult vertical development. As we age, our self-identity and the self-imposed limits on who we can become shift from the person we have been told we are and will become, to a new, emergent identity that we self-author. It's time to self-author your career change!

Join GUAA Career Coaching Partner Theresa Garcia for a two-part series to explore 6 Steps for a Successful Career Change!

Thursday, June 20 will cover Steps 1-3:
1. Understand and challenge self-limiting beliefs – suspending judgement - no negative self-talk!
2. Increase self-awareness – who are you now and what do you really want – as an individual
3. Learn good boundary-management – say “no” without guilt or the need to please others

Thursday, July 25 will cover Steps 4-6:
4. Create a career transition Project Plan – including actions, dates, deliverables, and data gathering
5. Strong network of personal support – those who support your efforts without judgement
6. Practicing good self-care; healthy eating, exercise, sleep, spiritual connection