Whether through divorce, downsizing, widowhood or choice, millions of middle-aged people are often surprised to find themselves, suddenly perhaps, in a position where they need to start over in at least some aspect of their lives.
Perhaps you’ve lived with the same partner or spouse for decades and suddenly you find yourself alone. Or perhaps you’ve been let go from either a long-time job or even the last of a series of shorter term positions. These things can happen at any time in life, but they are more likely to occur in the fifties and sixties.
Of course, if this happens to you, you can expect that you might go through a period of grief or depression — yes, even for a job. You can cry and sleep late for a time. This is a time to seek support from friends, family, a therapist or grief counselor — whoever can offer you the comfort and security you need at this time. Journaling (just simply writing your feelings down in a notebook from day to day) is very helpful as an outlet for some people.
When some of the grief has subsided, you may look for a silver lining. You may even find one without looking for it. A silver lining is what happens when you have no choice but to cope with something unexpected. Although it can be very painful at first, it can open into something wonderful and unexpected that gives you new confidence and a new joy in life. You may find a new kind of work, a new interest, a new partner or friend. What if the best part of your life hasn’t happened yet?
You might want to talk with friends or join a group of older folks in transition. There are books you could consult also. Jane Pauley, who’s in her early 60’s herself and lost her job on The Today Show when she got older, has recently written Your Life Calling: Re-imagining the Rest of Your Life. Another option is a book by Herminia Ibarra called Working Identity: Unconventional Strategies for Reinventing Your Career.
Of course, working with a career counselor can provide insights into the next phase of your life, no matter how old you are.
What plans do you have for the next stage of your career? Share your thoughts in the “Comments” section below.
