Leading Fearlessly: The Next Act: Courageous Career Shifts in Midlife and Beyond
“Are you crazy?” My friends asked, not unkindly. I just smiled.
After several decades climbing the ladder in the high-stakes world of finance, the question hung in the air: “Why would you leave such a successful career?” That was over a decade ago and my peers, family, even the nagging voice within, couldn’t quite fathom the leap I was considering. Everyone questioned why I would walk away from a hard-earned professional reputation, licenses and financial upside – all for the unpredictable terrain of a nonprofit. But where they saw a gamble, I felt a magnetic pull toward purpose. It was a risk, undeniably. But faith, and a deep-seated need to make a difference, propelled me forward. I didn’t feel like my decision to shift my career was a whim; it was a midlife recalibration.
I’m far from alone. A recent Grant Thornton survey found that nearly two-thirds of the women with 10-25 years of work experience are considering a new career path. Across industries and demographics, the traditional career narrative is being rewritten. Midlife, once a plateau, is now a launchpad for reinvention. And retirement, once seen as the end, is now an opportunity to explore new options.
“Careers are more fluid, volatile, and boundary less than ever,” says a research article called “Breaking Barriers: A Review of Career Transition Trends for Women” in Open Psychology Journal. “Many women are now considering career transitions to pursue new opportunities and achieve greater career fulfillment.”
As midcareer years loom, many encounter a “career plateau,” a moment of introspection that begs the question: “What now?” For women particularly, this period often coincides with shifting family dynamics, offering a window to reclaim personal aspirations. The courage required to pivot is substantial. It demands intentionality – a thorough assessment of skills and passions, coupled with the bravery to explore uncharted territories.
Then there’s the burgeoning trend of redefining retirement. The notion of a quiet, passive existence is fading. Instead, individuals are embracing a “second act,” a phase of continued engagement and purpose. Gone are the days of mandatory retirement; people are choosing to work longer, either in new fields or by launching their own ventures. They’re leveraging decades of experience, not to fade into the background, but to contribute in meaningful ways.
At midcareer and later in life, the fear of it being “too late to start again” is a common concern. But the rewards – the satisfaction of pursuing long-held passions, the intellectual stimulation of new challenges, and the sense of new ways to make a meaningful contribution – far outweigh the risks. And the wealth of accumulated experience is an invaluable asset that should not be underestimated.
“There’s something powerful about reaching midlife,” says a recent Forbes article on midcareer reinvention. The author, Melissa Houston, notes: “You’ve lived long enough to know what matters to you, what you’re passionate about, and how to navigate life’s challenges with resilience.” It’s critical to remember that resilience, problem-solving skills and a unique perspective are highly sought after, whether in the corporate world or entrepreneurial ventures.
Whether it’s a midlife pivot or a post-retirement reinvention, the key lies in embracing the journey. Networking, mentorship and continuous learning are vital tools. For many, shift provides the chance to craft a narrative of success on your own terms, not adhering to outdated societal scripts.
These transitions, whether in midlife or beyond traditional retirement age, are not about abandoning the past, but about building upon it. They require courage, intentionality and a willingness to embrace uncertainty. But the potential for greater satisfaction and a more fulfilling life makes the journey undeniably worthwhile. The narrative is shifting; it’s never too late to redefine your purpose.
I asked local leaders who have made midcareer or retirement shifts for advice on pivoting professionally and personally.
Romonda D. Belcher, retired judge, Iowa 5th Judicial District, published author, adjunct law professor
As successful women, you are so much more than the titles that precede your names or the initials that follow them. Your success is defined by your perseverance and courage to accomplish the goals you set for yourself to walk in your purpose. Your growth is measured by how you continue to challenge yourself. Remember to take time to appreciate what you have already accomplished. Be comforted knowing that the same determination and confidence will guide you in your new endeavor. Be grounded by faith, family and fearlessness. Faith to know that you are more than enough even when you don’t have all the answers and may still be trying to figure out what’s next. The love of family so you never forget who you are and the sacrifices made for you. Fearlessness to walk away on your own terms to pursue other interests, redefining your purpose.
Michelle Book, retired CEO, Food Bank of Iowa, community leader
The word “retire” derives from the French “retirer,” meaning to withdraw. Ask any successful, engaged 65-year-old if they are ready to withdraw from life and most respond with an emphatic “No!” Some will focus on family, travel or recreation; I applaud those choices.
However, I have always enjoyed the satisfaction of achievement that comes from working. So I prefer to repurpose rather than retire.
Repurposing allows individuals to continue contributing to society, utilizing their accumulated knowledge and experience in new and meaningful ways. It provides a sense of fulfillment that traditional retirement may lack. Repurposed individuals often maintain better mental and physical health, fostering a more vibrant community.
Rather than viewing retirement as an end, repurposing offers a new beginning, filled with opportunities for growth and impact. After many years of funding children and saving for old age, now there are no more “have to’s” – there are only “get to’s.”
Jann Freed, leadership development and change management consultant, the Genysys Group, author
I am part of a generation of women redefining what “retirement” looks like. What advice would I give to other women over 50 considering a transition?
Based on my experience, navigating life transitions is not about being smart or having lots of money. It is about making intentional decisions about how you want to spend your resources — time, money and energy. Retirement planning is often focused on money. But once you have “enough” money to support your lifestyle, the nonfinancial aspects of retirement matter. Where will I find my purpose and new identity? Who will be my “tribe”? How will I continue to contribute my talents and serve causes in which I believe?
According to Bruce Feiler, author of “Life Is in the Transitions,” “The linear life is dead; the idea that we’re going to have one job, one relationship, one home … is gone. It’s been replaced by a nonlinear life with many more twists and turns and transitions. Gen Xers understand that more intuitively than do boomers, and millennials understand it more than Xers.”
Janell Pittman, chief marketing officer, Chief Outsiders
Ignore the idea of balance. Take time to truly understand your priorities, passions and what brings YOU JOY, then allocate your time accordingly.
As leaders, we are always thinking about stakeholders. Think about what brings YOU JOY absent the positive reinforcements and influence of others.
Ramona Wink, Vistage chair
Our society spends millions trying to convince people, especially women, that success and beauty are dependent upon age. My advice to women of all ages is this: “Just say, ‘No!’” Age does not define us.
Having that gritty mindset has allowed me to navigate life’s transitions, some of them very difficult, with optimism and hope.
Other factors that have guided me through times of change are my faith and my “why.”
My faith reminds me that God has an amazing plan for all of God’s children. That plan doesn’t stop or diminish when we qualify for an AARP card! God’s amazing plan doesn’t spare us from difficulties. When times are tough, God’s Word whispers, “Fear not, for I am with you.”
My personal and professional “why” is “Better together!” We are better together.
Surround yourself with great people who encourage and inspire you to be fearless. I believe in you!
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