Why you’re unhappy at work
Why you’re unhappy at work.
Nothing is more annoying than when you feel you are starting to lose all your enthusiasm for your job. So much of our day is taken up with work and if you are not happy in your role, low mood can start to infiltrate all other areas of your life to include your relationships and social life.
People may outgrow their careers in midlife due to a variety of reasons, including personal, professional, and lifestyle factors. Here are some common reasons that you might be able to relate to that could help explain your midlife malaise at work and why you’ve started googling recruitment websites:
Changing priorities and values: As individuals age our priorities change, it’s only natural that what might have been important to us n our 20s is no longer such as burning issue at 45. You may begin to prioritise different aspects of your life, such as work-life balance, fulfillment, making a contribution to society or pursuing new interests and passions. This shift in priorities can lead to a desire for a career change that aligns better with their current values and goals.
Desire for new challenges: At 50, you are not dead yet! After spending several years in the same career, people may feel a need for new challenges and growth opportunities – you might feel a need to ‘go again!’. You might seek fresh experiences, learning opportunities, or professional development all that you feel your current career may not provide.
Burnout or stagnation: Long years of work in a particular field or position can lead to burnout or a feeling of being stuck in a rut. The repetitive nature of tasks, feeling unappreciated in the workplace or lack of growth prospects can diminish job satisfaction, prompting people to explore new career paths that invigorate their passion and motivation.
Health considerations: Health concerns or physical limitations can influence career choices in the 50s. People may prioritise their wellbeing (perhaps after an illness) and seek careers that offer more flexibility, reduced physical demands, or better work-life balance to prioritize their well-being and accommodate changing health needs.
Industry changes: Industries and job markets continually evolve, and certain careers may become less relevant or face challenges over time. Technological advancements, economic shifts, or changes in consumer demands can make some careers less viable or less fulfilling. This can prompt people to seek opportunities in industries that are experiencing growth or align better with future trends.
Financial stability: Some individuals may reach a point in their 50s where financial stability allows them to consider alternative career options. With reduced financial responsibilities, such as mortgage payments or dependents, they may be more willing to take risks or explore careers that offer personal fulfillment over financial gains. You may decide to reduce down to part time hours and use this freed up time to retrain in a completely differ field.
Life transitions: Life transitions, such as empty nest syndrome, caring for aging parents, or reaching retirement age, can prompt individuals to reevaluate their career choices. These milestones often lead to introspection and a reassessment of one’s goals and aspirations, potentially resulting in a desire for a career change.
It’s important to recognize that career outgrowth in the 50s is a normal part of personal and professional growth. With careful planning, self-reflection, and exploration, individuals can find new career paths that align with their current needs, passions, and goals. Seeking support from career coaches, counsellors or professional networks can provide valuable guidance and insights during the process of transitioning to a new career in this stage of life.
If you would like help with your midlife transition or to find direction in the second half of life, why not read The Midlife Crisis Handbook or attend a course at The Midlife Academy.
