Starting over after 40 might sound like a daunting task. After all, society has a sneaky way of making us believe that career changes are for the young and fearless. But here’s a little secret: starting fresh in midlife can be one of the most empowering, exciting, and rewarding things you’ll ever do.
I’ve been there, standing at the crossroads of What next? with a mix of excitement and terror. But instead of letting fear hold me back, I took a deep breath, dusted off my resume, and embraced the adventure. Spoiler: it’s been amazing (and occasionally hilarious).
In this post, I’m sharing my personal journey of building a second career after 40, along with practical tips to help you navigate this chapter with confidence.
Why Start Over After 40?
First, let’s bust a myth. Forty is not a deadline—it’s a milestone. You’ve got decades of work experience, life lessons, and a whole lot of wisdom. Why not use them to build something you’re passionate about?
For me, the shift happened when I realized my first career no longer aligned with who I’d become. I was burnt out, uninspired, and ready for a change. If you’re feeling the same, you’re not alone.
Here’s why starting over in midlife can be a game-changer:
- Clarity: By 40, you know what you like (and what you don’t like).
- Perspective: You’ve survived the ups and downs of life—you can handle this.
- Opportunities: The job market has evolved. Remote work, freelancing, and entrepreneurship have opened up new possibilities.
Step 1: Reflect on Your Passions and Skills
When I first considered a career change, I felt overwhelmed. Where do you even start? The answer: by looking inward.
Take time to reflect on these questions:
- What activities make you lose track of time?
- What are your strengths and talents?
- What do you enjoy learning about?
For me, writing had always been a side hustle. I realized it was my true passion and decided to turn it into my main gig. The key is finding something that aligns with both your interests and your skills.
Step 2: Upgrade Your Skills
Let’s face it: the job market has changed since you started your first career. But the good news is, so can you.
I dove into online courses like a kid into a candy store. Platforms like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, and Skillshare became my new best friends. From digital marketing to graphic design, I picked up skills that made me feel confident and current.
Whether it’s earning a certification, attending workshops, or watching YouTube tutorials, upgrading your skills is an investment in your future.
Step 3: Network Like a Pro
Networking isn’t just for twenty-somethings in suits. By midlife, you’ve built a treasure trove of connections—friends, colleagues, and former bosses who can help open doors.
Here’s how I approached networking:
- Reconnect: I reached out to old contacts on LinkedIn. (Yes, even the ones I hadn’t spoken to in years. Turns out, people are surprisingly happy to help.)
- Join Groups: I joined industry-specific Facebook groups and attended local meetups.
- Be Authentic: I didn’t try to pretend I had everything figured out. Instead, I shared my story and goals, which led to genuine connections.
Networking is less about asking for favors and more about building relationships. You never know who might introduce you to your next big opportunity.
Step 4: Embrace the Side Hustle
If the idea of diving headfirst into a new career feels risky, start small. I tested the waters by freelancing while still working my old job. It was a great way to gain experience, build confidence, and (bonus) earn extra income.
Think about how you can dip your toes into your new field. Whether it’s consulting, selling handmade goods, or teaching a class, side hustles are an excellent stepping stone.
Step 5: Get Comfortable with Being Uncomfortable
Here’s the thing about starting over: it’s going to feel awkward. I vividly remember fumbling through my first client pitch and thinking, Why did I do this to myself? But here’s the truth: growth happens outside your comfort zone.
Mistakes are part of the process. You’ll stumble, but you’ll also learn and improve. Give yourself permission to be a beginner.
Step 6: Stay Resilient
Rejection isn’t personal—it’s part of the journey. I applied for a dozen writing gigs before landing my first one. Instead of dwelling on the nos, I focused on the next.
Here’s how I stayed motivated:
- Celebrate Small Wins: Every positive step—no matter how small—is worth celebrating.
- Keep Learning: Each setback taught me something valuable.
- Focus on the Vision: I kept reminding myself of why I started.
Step 7: Know Your Worth
One of the biggest hurdles I faced was imposter syndrome. I kept thinking, Am I too old for this? Spoiler: I wasn’t, and neither are you.
Your experience is an asset. Whether you’re pivoting to a new field or launching a business, your unique perspective and life skills give you an edge.
Step 8: Build a Strong Support System
Starting over isn’t a solo journey. Surround yourself with people who believe in you. For me, that meant leaning on friends, family, and online communities of like-minded individuals.
Share your goals, seek advice, and let others cheer you on. Their encouragement can make all the difference.
Step 9: Be Patient
Building a second career takes time. It’s not about instant success—it’s about steady progress. I reminded myself daily that Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is a fulfilling career.
Patience isn’t my strong suit (ask anyone who’s seen me wait for cookies to bake), but I’ve learned that good things come to those who persevere.
Step 10: Celebrate Your Journey
Starting over at 40 isn’t just about reaching a destination—it’s about enjoying the ride. Each step, each milestone, and even each mistake is part of your unique story.
So, pour yourself a glass of wine (or tea, if that’s your thing) and celebrate how far you’ve come. You’re doing something brave and incredible.
Final Thoughts
Building a second career after 40 isn’t easy, but it’s absolutely worth it. It’s a chance to rediscover yourself, pursue your passions, and create a life that truly aligns with your goals.
If I can do it, so can you. So take that first step, embrace the journey, and remember: it’s never too late to start over.
Deb 🙂
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