Changing jobs at age 40 can be more dizzying than standing on the edge of the steepest, highest cliff we’ve ever visited. However, there are many people who have even managed to reinvent their professional career at this age.
One of the keys is to do it strategically, taking into account certain factors or variables essential for this change. In this article we will talk about some useful strategies for those who want or have no choice but to start this adventure.
In this sense, looking for a new job can be one of those changes that gives us real fear -we are going to leave a field in which we felt more or less secure to another in which the uncertainty may be much greater- when, for age, we understand that we should already enjoy consolidated stability.
However, if we consider it, it is because the passing of the years has not blurred our concern for improving our quality of life.
Is it advisable to change jobs at 40?
40 is a significant age. During this stage we may experience many changes that can lead to identity crises.. For example, it is possible that one of the parents becomes ill or dies due to old age, and this could arouse our fear of death.
Following this line, a study found a significant relationship between the fear of death and different psychological pathologies. These include depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorders, stress, etc. (Menzies, Sharpe, and Dar-Nimrod, 2019). So, we see how certain common events at that age could generate crises of some kind.
During these critical times, many realize they are not leading the life they once dreamed of.. For that reason, they choose to take certain actions, such as changing jobs or finding new passions. But, with this desire to see new horizons, fear also usually comes and they ask themselves: is it advisable to change jobs at 40?
How to change jobs at 40?
Depending on the field, looking for a new job at this age can be considerably more complicated than doing it in your 20s or 30s. Our energy level is lower, we tend to have accumulated more manias and have perfected certain pleasant routines that we will now have to reflect on.
Like any other project, taking a step that involves so many changes It requires planning and conscious effort. Let’s see some recommendations that you must take into account to be able to achieve it.
1. Define the work you want to do
The first step is to be clear about the job you want to have in the future. If you don’t know exactly, try to think of those things that you were passionate about when you were younger and maybe you couldn’t do. Sometimes, different situations force people to put aside their dreams, but it is never too late to return to them.
In case you need a little more help to define it, we invite you to the following reflection: if money was not a problem and you could do a job for free, what would it be?
2. Look for ways to specialize in the area you want to practice
Our experience in the area in which we want to find a new occupation has a significant weight in the job search at 40. Perhaps you have spent years dedicating yourself to a job that only generates frustration and suffering. You have tried to change this, and you have even mentally adopted strategies so that these aspects of your work life do not think so much about your emotional sphere; however, it has not worked.
You also look at the offers that come out in your specialty and you have the feeling that you meet few of the most demanded requirements. If so, We recommend that you first take on the challenge of recycling your knowledge a bit.
As a step prior to leaving, you may be able to request a relocation from your company to help you accumulate, simply on a day-to-day basis, experience in these new areas or technologies. On the other hand, fortunately today we have very good courses for any sector.
3. Start applying and interviewing
If you are going to jump into the pool, go through the shower, put your legs in the water, let your body acclimatize little by little. You can start your job search while still in your current position. Doing it this way will take away your anxiety, and ultimately prevent you from ending up accepting conditions that you don’t really want either.
On the other hand, this escalating acclimatization will help you adjust your expectations; something that is very positive if you also contemplate the possibility of opening a negotiation with your company about your conditions.
4. Consider volunteering
If you’re looking to change jobs at 40, you probably already know that experience is highly desirable for getting contracts. A) Yes, An alternative that can help you is to apply as a volunteer in an organization that relates to your future job. This is a good option if you don’t mind working for free, and you can even take it up as a hobby.
5. Consider the possibility of starting your own business
You may not get immediate or even long-term contracts because the job market is changing. However, that does not mean that you should give up on your project and stay in an unsatisfactory job. If other people don’t offer you a path, then maybe you could build one yourself. through a business.
In this same sense, having your own business is another project that has its own challenges. But, it also has advantages, since you will not depend on anyone to do what you like and earn money at the same time. With a well thought out plan it is possible to carry out almost any company and be successful.
Finally, starting a psychotherapy process can also help you with your goal of changing jobs at 40. Above all, if you are not sure where you want to go or what you are really passionate about. A psychology professional can apply various methods and techniques to guide you and discover your true vocation.