Change career or just get a ‘job’ ?

[hibiscuslightening]

I’m 50 and at a career crossroads. I’m a qualified teacher and until recently was happily working in a niche education role. ( after a long and ‘interesting’ work history).

After moving to a new area I’ve found myself at a real crossroads career wise and I’m confused about what to do next. I’m clear that I don’t want to work as a teacher and am exploring moving into a new career (project management/ civil service ). However it’s proving difficult to find an entry level job here and I am doubting myself about starting again (tired, menopausal, brain fogged etc).

I now have an opportunity for a job which is at a lower level, local and in my comfort zone (not teaching) and I am wondering if - given my ‘age and stage’ is something I should go for. Both the initial salary for the Junior project management roles and this job would be similar ( both big pay cut from teaching) but the job has no progression but I would hope to work my way up as a project manager.

im looking to maintain my earnings for day to day, but already have pension plans in place from around 60. I’m financially secure (mortgage paid off etc) So what is my best plan for the next 10 or so years of my working life?

I had a similar dilemma recently, and went for the easy option job, instead of full-on career pivot.

6 months on and although I’m grateful for the work, I do wake up in a cold sweat most nights wondering what I’m doing with my life and if this really is it…. I definitely need more challenge and to use my brain more!

It’s a difficult job market though, and a bird in hand and all that.

It’s a hard call. I’ve already had a few ‘temporary’ jobs since moving - non of which has been the right fit. My next post really has to be 5 years +

Then I think you have your answer! Go for what you know you want to do - and don’t waste any more time. You’re only 50, so still young enough to pivot and climb the ladder 👌

You're only 50. Plenty of working years ahead. People are coming back out of retirement to work again. Go for what you want. You will get there eventually 🙂

Thank you. I just wish I knew what that actually is!

can empathise - it’s exactly how I feel. I’d be unstoppable if I knew what it was that would really use my strengths/talents and was something I’d like to do. Am lucky to have coaches at my work so I’m trying that first. If that doesn’t work, am considering finding a coach here