You’re Never Too Old!

You’re never too old to follow your dreams and find your purpose.

Though that may seem like pie-in-the-sky thinking, it’s absolutely true. Acclaimed painter Grandma Moses started her artistic career at the ripe old age of 78! You, too, can live out your dreams and ambitions if you make up your mind to do so.

Too often, we limit ourselves because we think, “This is it. This is the path I chose, and I’m too old to change now.” Though it may not be easy to change career tracks, pursue a passion you’re dreaming about, or start work again after a long break, it IS doable if you have a plan.

Though you might be afraid to make the leap, I encourage you to reflect and think about your current path. Are you happy? Are you feeling fulfilled? Do you wake up excited to start the day? If you’re less-than-happy with the way things are, it may be time to refocus your purpose (one of my pillars of Self-Wealth). I have found that my clients are much happier–even if they have to take a small pay cut–if they are doing something they enjoy or that gives them a sense of direction.

Some of the main reasons I’ve noticed for people resisting their calling include:

• Fear of stepping outside their comfort zone
• Fear of a reduction in pay
• Fear that they do not have the required skill set
• Resistance to letting others help with the transition

While these are all valid trepidations, they are ALL surmountable.

If you’re afraid of stepping outside your comfort zone…

Talk to others who have been through a similar transition or who are doing the thing that YOU want to be doing. Spend time gathering information and doing research before making any decisions. You may also want to call upon a few friend or your significant other for support and guidance. Also, keep in mind that fear of the unknown is normal, but you are smart and capable enough to navigate uncharted waters.

If you’re worried about a pay cut…

If you’re hoping to move into a new career, but are afraid of a potential pay reduction, do your homework. Find out the average salary, and start planning. If the salary is less than what you’re making now, ask yourself if you’re okay with that. I have found that being happy and purpose-driven is worth a whole LOT of money to most people. If you have a spouse who will be impacted by your decision, be sure to discuss this aspect of your worries with him/her as well.

If you don’t have the required skill set…

Consider enrolling in classes! Once you start looking, you’ll find that there are an abundance of resources to learn new skills or sharpen old ones. Take an online class through Udemy or Teachable, enroll in a community or continuing education class, or take a few classes at a community college. Whether you’re learning Adobe PhotoShop, a new language, or wood carving, you’re bound to find the resources you need.

If you’re resistant to others’ help…

Understand that, no matter how independent you are, big transitions often take a village. Don’t be afraid to lean on your partner, friends, or your professional network for help and support. Chances are, others have gone through something similar and are willing to help. And even if they haven’t experienced something quite the same, many people are willing to lend a listening ear or be a sounding board for ideas. Even telling a friend your plans over a cup of coffee will help clarify your path and (hopefully) gain you an ally as you move forward to pursue your passions.

 

REMEMBER: It’s not too late to follow your dreams! I would argue, in fact, that pursuing your passions is necessary for true happiness and fulfillment. If you’re worried, that’s normal. Just approach your transition with a plan, think through all the angles, and dare to take the leap…