WELLBEING

40-plus and ready for a career change? Here’s how to make the switch

22 July, 2023 . 0

Being in your 40s is not too late to change careers. Our experts reveal how to make the switch to feel happier and more fulfilled at work.

If you find yourself dreading your morning alarm, taking sick days because you can, or constantly feeling bored at work, it may be time for a change.

The average Australian spends around 2000 hours per year at work – so, how would you prefer to spend your time?

Yes, a career change after 40 is possible

If you’ve already carved out a career, the idea of starting again can feel a little daunting.

Leadership development coach and Your Good Life founder Danielle Colley says what’s needed is a new perspective.

“You’re taking a life of experience and skills into a new direction,” Danielle says.

“You have a long time before retirement so if you have an opportunity to make the next career something that is fulfilling, now is the time.”

Research shows job satisfaction plays a pivotal role in overall quality of life, from social relationships to perceived health status, so how you earn your money appears to be key for a well-rounded life.

How to make a late career change

Identify your strengths and values

When looking to make a bold career move, Danielle suggests you start by doing an audit of your strengths and passions.

“Identifying values is as simple as doing some self-reflection,” Danielle says.

Consider who you are deep down, what motivates you, and what prompts you to take action.

“A successful life is one where your values are aligned with your actions.”

Pick what piques your curiosity

What type of podcasts do you listen to? Which section of the library do you make a beeline for? “Remember what used to feel good for you before you got bogged down by responsibility,” Danielle advises.

“Follow that feeling of excitement and expansion that comes with curiosity.”

Danielle also recommends getting out of your comfort zone to try new things.

“Explore a short course, or try some weekend work,” she suggests.

Map out your career options

Engaging a career coach can be a great way to identify and whittle down your career options.

Career coach and Relaunch Me founder Leah Lambart says her first step when helping someone find a new career is to assess their natural strengths, transferrable skills, interests and values.

“Once you’ve identified potential careers, undertake in-depth research,” Leah says.

“Read articles about careers of interest, review jobs to see how they sit with your skill set, speak to people working in your field of interest for a warts-and-all look at the job.

“The more career ideas you can test out, the more clarity you will get.”

Make a smart career move

Leah says it’s easy to get stuck in a loop of overthinking.

Taking action is where the magic happens.

“Undertake a bite-sized course, seek out volunteer opportunities, or job shadow,” she suggests.

If your potential new path points to returning to study, HR consultant Geoffrey Vaughan says reflective questioning and industry insight can be enough to determine if uni is the right step.

Still undecided? Geoffrey, from the University of the Sunshine Coast Employability and Programs department, says there’s consistent demand in health services.

“Occupational therapy, speech therapy, counselling and psychotherapy – those areas seem to be in growth at the moment and have been for the last couple of years,” Geoffrey says.

“Another field (to consider) … is engineering, particularly civil engineering.”

Read more on fulfilment and career success:

Written by Sarah Vercoe.