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Brutally Honest Career Advice for a Change of Career at 50

kesha96

woman enjoying change of career at 50

By age 50, society tells us we’re supposed to be coasting toward the finish line, right? We’re “supposed” to be on the home stretch of a long, stable, single-path career—head down, focus on retirement, and ride it out. But what happens when you look at the path ahead...then back at the one behind...and you realize, "I can NOT keep going this way. This isn’t for me. I want more, and I need something different"?

If you’ve ever felt like that—this blog is for you.


(And you can check out the YouTube vlog HERE.)


Midlife Change of Career at 50: You’re Not Alone


First off, let me say this—you are not alone. We’ve been sold this idea of what will make us happy and what we “should” do with our lives. But many of us, myself included, come to realize later in life that what we thought would bring us fulfillment... doesn’t. Whether it’s the constant job turbulence, hating your boss, or feeling trapped in a role that leaves you hopeless, depressed, and maybe even a little worthless—this is a crossroads many people hit in midlife. It’s real, and it’s tough. But the good news? It’s never too late to make a change.

As long as you’re breathing, it’s not too late to find happiness and purpose. You deserve to wake up feeling proud, engaged, and excited about your direction in life. And yes, you can absolutely make a big career change at 50.



woman celebrating change of career at 50

But Can I Really Make a Change of Career at 50?


I know, I know. The thought of a midlife career change can be terrifying. The doubt creeps in: "Can I really do this? Am I too old? Will it be worth it?"

Here’s where I’m going to get real with you, Saturn-style (if you’re into astrology, you know what I mean). Saturn, the planet of hard work, maturity, and responsibility, doesn’t sugarcoat things. And neither will I.


There are challenges. It may not work out how you expect it to. Ageism is a real issue, and our society often favors youth, because younger workers can seem more flexible, eager to please, and easier to mold. You might find yourself stuck between leaving your old career and not quite landing in the new one yet. And guess what? You might have to start at a lower salary or entry-level position—again.


But the reality is, the world changes, and so do we. You’re not the same person you were at 25. Your responsibilities have likely grown—family, mortgages, bills—all things that can’t be ignored as you pivot your career. It might take longer to rise in your new field. And it will absolutely take courage and hard work. No fluff. Saturn doesn’t play games.


But there are also rewards, and they can be SWEET. Now, before I completely depress you, let’s talk about another planet in astrology, Jupiter. Jupiter is the planet of adventure, growth, abundance, and optimism. While Saturn reminds you to be practical, Jupiter is the voice of faith and expansion. Jupiter says, “Hey! Life is supposed to be enjoyed! If you’re not a little scared, you’re not dreaming big enough!”


Jupiter reminds us that it’s unnatural to live life tied to something that doesn’t bring you joy. It says, if you truly believed in yourself, your strengths, and your abilities, you wouldn’t even recognize the incredible life you could create. Yes, there’s risk. But Jupiter says, “No risk, no reward.”


In astrology, Saturn and Jupiter are the success planets, and both are needed here: common sense and faith. Rationality and optimism. Planning and growth. Together, they create the perfect recipe for success.



painter enjoying change of career at 50

So, Is Making a Change of Career at 50 Worth the Risk?


I get it—staying in the “safe” job you hate feels secure. But let’s be real, that safety is often an illusion. I’ve seen too many people stay loyal to a job they despised, only to be laid off in their 50s with no plan.

So, is a career change after 50 worth it? If this is something that’s calling to you—YES. But it’s not without its challenges. Here are some practical ways to navigate it:


1. Does It Need to Be a Full Career Shift?

Sometimes the change you need isn’t a complete career overhaul, but more about finding purpose and direction. It could be restructuring your current career to make space for the things that do bring you fulfillment, like a side business, hobby, or passion project.


2. Consider a Parallel Venture

If going all-in on a new career feels too risky, consider starting your new path on the side. This is easier if you’re venturing into entrepreneurship, but even part-time work in certain fields could help you ease into the shift.


3. Repackage Your Skills

Your past experience is valuable. The trick is to highlight how it applies to your new career. Take the time to upskill through courses, certifications, or new technologies. Update your resume to reflect your transferable skills—leadership, problem-solving, adaptability. Companies need those, but they also need to see that you’re current and capable of thriving in today’s environment.


4. Give Some Love to Your Network

By 50, your professional network might not be as active as it once was. Now is the time to invest in reconnecting with old contacts and building new relationships. Use LinkedIn, attend industry events, and reach out to those in the field you’re targeting. In a career shift, referrals and connections are key.


5. Be Honest About Your Energy and Stamina

Starting fresh demands energy. Be real with yourself about whether you’re ready for the hustle. It may mean focusing on your physical and mental health to maintain the intensity a new career might require. Showing optimism, focus, and energy is essential when competing against younger candidates.



woman change of career at 50

Final Thoughts

You’re not here to be held captive by a job or career that no longer serves you. You’re here to engage with life, to feel free, to have options, and to experience your own power. When you harness the full potential of your mind, life can open up in incredible ways.


You’re not too old, and it’s not too late. You can change your career and find joy, fulfillment, and purpose. But it will take faith in yourself—and yes, a bit of Jupiter’s magic combined with Saturn’s steady work discipline.


The best is yet to come.




Kesha Dent is a certified hypnotherapist and the author of "Life Change Now" who is passionate about helping women find life purpose and direction and overcome anxiety in their 40s, 50s and beyond. You can find her at www.newworldhynosis.com .








 


 



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