by Justarius

Created on: August 30, 2011   Last Updated: September 20, 2011

Starting a second career at any age can be challenging, but with a positive attitude and resourcefulness, it can also be the best thing you ever did.  Here is a step by step guide to help you make your second act even better than the first.

Step 1: Don't believe the myth 

"I'm too old to start over."  "You can't teach an old dog new tricks." You've heard these before, but do not believe them.  Many famous people have launched successful new careers after 50.  Laura Ingalls Wilder wrote the  "Little House on the Prairie" series starting at age 65.   Ronald Reagan became an elected official at 55 and later President of the United States. 

Step 2: Believe in yourself

No matter what happens, believe in yourself.  You and your experiences have value above and beyond any employer's assessment of you.  Outdated and obsolete?  Try telling the members of the Elder Wisdom Circle that; they obviously did not get the memo.  These elderly folks, ages 60 to 105, have garnered national acclaim for using their experiences to help people through difficult personal situations.

Step 3: Find your passion

This is your golden opportunity.  Do not just limit yourself to fields that "make sense;" open your mind completely.  Are there things that you have always wanted to do but could not?  Now is your chance.  Enter a completely different field, or start your own business.  There are challenges to both, but consider this: you are in a far better position to take risks now than when you were 22.  At 22, you were lucky to have a car and a piece of paper with "B.A." or "B.S." stamped upon it.  Now, you have far more assets.  Imagine all the things that you could accomplish by combining the daring of your 20s with the resources of your 50s. 

Step 4: Use your network

In addition to financial resources, you also have a wealth of human resources.  Utilize them.  Connect with your friends, family, peers, mentors, and business contacts.  At least it will be nice to catch up and to receive some encouragement.  At best your conversations lead to self discovery and opportunities.  Others often see things about you that you cannot.  Networking is also the most effective way to uncover employment opportunities. 

Step 5: Make a plan

Now that you have explored your options, it is time to make a plan of action.  What is your goal, and how do you get there? 

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