What do you mean by “second-act careers”?
They’re careers you can apply to your semi-retirement, geared for people over 50 who are getting to the end of their big career — but looking at the possibility of working another 10 to 25 years.
What should you pay attention to when you’re trying to decide on an enjoyable second career?
You’ve had a lifetime of experiences and accomplishments, so you want to take a look back and really think about what you’ve enjoyed, done well and found meaningful. Take a look at the whole picture. Typically what people do is they take a look at their last job and say, “What’s the next logical step?” For people who are at this point in their lives, it’s no longer just about the next logical step. It’s about finally having the chance to do what you want to do and to do something completely different, if that’s something you’ve been thinking of doing for a long time.
What kinds of jobs are in the offing?
There are multiple income streams from which you could potentially profit, including combining speaking, coaching and consulting. One of the newer areas is producing informational products and services on the Internet.
Is it difficult for people
to adjust to this cobbled-together life?
For most people, change is always somewhat difficult. The overriding theme I heard in the stories — and I interviewed 40 different people for the book — was how fear really plays a role in this process.
How do people overcome this fear?
It’s about two things. The first is figuring out what you’d like to do. That helps to lessen the fear. The other part is doing baby steps like taking a class. I could not believe how many training programs that are out there for every type of entrepreneurial endeavor under the sun. I discovered a three-day certification program in how to become a professional dog walker. You just need to decide which direction you want to head in. Take on a volunteer assignment. Go to a workshop. Go to a conference.