11. Learn New Skills
Identify what training or education you need to make you marketable in your
chosen career. Think in terms of skills instead of credentials. Although degrees
and licenses are required for some kinds of work, often you'll just need to
acquire or hone skills, and the best way to do this is through experience.
Investigate internships and apprenticeships. Contact the nearest
college or university to find out about adult education programs. Most schools
offer special programs for returning women
students which have flexible schedules, prepare you for the classroom and
help you find financial aid.
12. Network
Making connections with people in your chosen field will enrich your understanding of the career, inform you about specific job opportunities and position you to be a serious candidate. Join professional associations; attend meetings. Make your interest and enthusiasm visible. Genuine excitement and commitment naturally attract the interest of others; that way you don't have to do a hard sell.
13. Overcome Obstacles
TIME and RESPONSIBILITIES
Most people are so consumed by their current job and responsibilities that they feel unable to make a career change. You may worry about jeopardizing financialsecurity or reneging on your obligations to others.
These are valid concerns. But equally valid is the issue of what you owe yourself. Your second adulthood is your opportunity to turn your most important dreamsinto realities.
You can minimize conflict between meeting your own needs and those of others by giving yourself a relatively long time frame to make your career transition. Set manageable weekly goals that represent small but consistent steps toward changing your career.
REACTIONS of FAMILY
All systems, including families, resist change. Give your family members time to anticipate and adjust to changes. Midlife tends to be a time when we renegotiate our relationships at home as children move away. Consider incorporating your career-change needs into your negotiations. Discuss the time and support you'll need. Define the boundaries you'll need to set and anticipate things you'll need to say "no" to.
The best way to get your family on board is to help them understand how important this change is to you. Remind them how much more energy you'll have to bring to your relationships once you're invigorated by your work. Show them your short term goals and the results of your accomplishments. They're more likely to show faith in you when they see you making progress. Be sure to let them know how grateful you are for their help.
FEAR
Change is frightening for everyone. Sometimes we focus so much on what we stand to lose that we forget to consider all that we can gain.
List all the risks you've taken before. Vividly recall a time when you faced down a fear and the wonderful feeling when you overcame the barrier and did itanyway. Imagine yourself successfully making this transition as well. See yourself in your new life. Since most of our fears are of the unknown, try to know as much as possible. Do research; get experience. Resist the temptation to reduce fear by avoiding the challenge. Instead try to accept and manage the fear. Remember, it won't last forever.
14. Get Support
Making career transitions requires lots of emotional support. Try not to be afraid to admit your fears. Find good listeners who can give you honest, nonjudgmental feedback. Ask others about their experiences. Look for support groups at women's career centers, adult continuing education centers, 40 Plus Clubs.
Most importantly, enlist your own support. Your commitment to make your
career transition work is the most important factor in your success.
