Do you feel like you’re starting late in life? We’ve heard this story hundreds of times. Women and men who think they are too old to be successful or create a meaningful life.
There is this immense pressure to push the wheel as early as possible. And some people believe that if you’re not grinding away your 20’s, you won’t get anywhere by 40.
But that’s not true. It is possible to achieve your professional and personal dreams with a late start in life, no matter your age.
Success Cases for Starting Late in Life
We found this list of powerful, successful people (included below) who prove our point. You’re never too old, and it’s never too late.
- Oprah had just gotten fired from her first reporting job at 23
- Stephen King was working as a janitor and living in a trailer at 24
- At 30, Harris Ford was a carpenter
- At 40, Vera Wang decided to design her first wedding dress
- Reed Hastings started his first Netflix stream at 47
- At 51, Ray Kroc started his first McDonalds
- Morgan Freeman landed his first major movie role at 52
- At 62, Kernel Sanders achieved success with KFC
Did you know that? Some of the most notable, influential personalities didn’t start “pushing the wheel” until their 30s and beyond. That’s incredibly encouraging.
Maybe you can connect with one of those figures. Maybe you just got fired from your job, and you want to start over in a fresh industry. Or perhaps your want to launch a startup but feel discouraged since you’re over 40.
We’re here to tell you that all of those limitations are just fears. And with the right mindset shift, mentorship, and dedication, anything is possible in life.
Starting Over With a New Career Later in Life
Did you know that about 80% of people who are 45+ consider changing careers, but 6% of them actually follow through? So, if you’re considering starting a career late in life, you’re one of many.
Let’s do a quick check. Do you resonate or agree with any of these questions?
- Do you feel bored and low-energy at work?
- Are you jealous of others who love their jobs?
- Do you find yourself fantasizing about a new professional life?
- Have you received the pay raise you deserve?
- If money were not an issue, would you switch careers?
- How often do you truly feel fulfilled at work?
Our Advice for Starting a Career Late
It’s hard to set out on a new chapter of life when there are so many uncertainties. But we have a few pieces of advice that will- hopefully- soothe those woes.
You Owe It To Yourself
Think of it this way. You’ve come a long way- experienced many ups and downs. So, you owe it to yourself to do what makes you happy. Maybe you’ve always had a passion for something- like a sales job– you never pursued. What’s really holding you back? Build a career and personal life that you feel can be transformative, purposeful, and interesting.
Check Your Values
Have your values and morals shifted since you joined the workforce? Maybe you don’t feel the same way about your industry as you did ten years ago. For whatever reason, it’s important to do a value self-check. This might help you realize it’s time to pivot.
Understand the Times
If you are a late bloomer or just want to start over, keep this in mind. Whether it be your career or personal ambitions, you must understand the times. That means keeping up with technology, what is in demand, and where society is moving toward.
Embrace Challenge
You might feel comfortable where you’re at but not happy. However, to be happy, comfort must be thrown to the wind. This new chapter of your life will be full of new challenges. Embrace them and use them as a chance to grow.
Build an Emotional Support Team
Having emotional support is critical. It can affect one’s confidence when approaching a pivotal moment in life. Do you have a group of people you can lean on for advice? Build an emotional support group that is FOR you, not questioning you. Even just one reliable friend will make any transitions or shifts easier to navigate.
Sales Recruiters Chicago Works with Recruiters & Job Seekers
Are you looking for a job in the sales industry in Chicago? Our team can help you find the perfect sales position that aligns with your objective, future goals, and current skill set.
If you are trying to fill a sales-based role within your Chicago company, Sales Recruiters Chicago can also help you hire the perfect candidate. We also have a Dallas location if you live in Texas.
Learn more about us to hire talent or get hired sooner rather than later.
