I like to view midlife or any career change as an exciting adventure. It's a helpful mindset to be sure, but I realize most people don't describe it like that when they're in the thick of it. When not managed properly, words I hear from people in the middle of it include terrifying, exhausting, and juggling act.
As a midlife career changer, balancing your new career aspirations with your family life can require a little planning and a lot of creativity. Let's talk about some practical ways we can survive trying to manage our career ambitions and family commitments during times of change.
1. What are you priorities?
Before diving into your career change, giving your family a heads up is a great idea. Bring them on board with your goals and priorities. Don't do this in isolation. Understanding what matters most to you and your loved ones will guide your decision-making process.
Tip: Okay, this sounds a bit out there but hear me out. What about creating a family vision board together, including everyone's aspirations and dreams? It doesn't have to be fancy or take a whole day to do. It can actually just be a conversation if that's more your style. It's a way to help get everyone a little inspired and line up goals.
2. How will you manage your time? Adding change into the mix of an already full life is no joke. Decide what can temporarily take a back seat. If you're going back to school, building up a side project, volunteering, working contracts, interviewing, job searching etc., you'll need to make time for these things. Where will this time come from? You still need to sleep and take care of yourself and your responsibilities.
Tip: Don't expect balance, aim for presence. Eliminate distractions and focus on being wherever you are. Shorter amounts of quality time with friends or family can beat longer periods of not really being present. You're gonna have to practice the discipline of doing what you say you're going to do and sticking to your schedule and commitments. The good news is you don't have to be perfect and this is temporary.
3. Involve Your Family in the Journey: Your career change isn't just about you; it impacts your family too. Encourage open communication with your loved ones and involve them in the process. Share your goals, challenges, and successes with them.
Tip: Remember to celebrate your wins! Also, don't forget that although you're involving your family in your career change journey, it is your career. If you feel like you're prioritizing the needs of everyone else at the cost of what matters to you, check out the article If Someone's Going to Feel Let Down By Your Career Decisions It Shouldn't Be You.
4. Delegate and Share Responsibilities: If you can, make a conscious effort to delegate tasks and responsibilities at home. Can your family members step in to help with household chores, childcare, or other duties, allowing you to focus on your career transition? Are there things you can let go of in the short term? Are there problems you can throw money at as a temporary measure that feel worthwhile to you?
Tip: Remind yourself: yes, you CAN have it all but not all at once. Remember what truly matters and review your priorities.
5. Quality Over Quantity: This is a reminder and reiteration of point 2. In the midst of a career change, you may not always have the luxury of spending long hours with your family. However, focus on making the time you have together meaningful. Engage in activities that create lasting memories.
Tip: Plan special family outings or activities that align with your family's interests and provide quality bonding time. Schedule them in advance so everyone has something to look forward to. You don't need a schedule jammed full of these, maybe it's more of honouring certain traditions that happen seasonally or even yearly.
6. Embrace Flexibility: Flexibility is a valuable asset when balancing family and a midlife career change. Explore flexible work arrangements, such as remote work or freelance opportunities, that allow you to better manage your time. I realize this isn't something that's available to everyone and perhaps it's one of the reasons you're making a change in the first place.
Tip: Negotiate flexible working hours with your employer or consider freelance opportunities that provide autonomy over your schedule.
7. Self-Care Is Non-Negotiable: Don't forget to take care of yourself amidst your career change and family responsibilities. Self-care isn't selfish; it's essential for your well-being and ability to support your family.
Tip: Schedule this. Give yourself a bedtime if you have to. Block off time for exercise, remember to eat. Because you're busy is a reason to take better care of yourself not a reason not to.
8. Seek Support: Don't hesitate to reach out for support when needed. Reach out. Even to me if you need help! I understand the unique challenges you face.
Tip: Connect with other people in similar life situations who have undergone a midlife career change. Their insights and experiences can be incredibly valuable.
Managing family and a midlife career change is undoubtedly a challenge, but with careful planning, communication, and a flexible approach, it's entirely achievable. Remember that your family is your biggest cheerleader, and involving them in your journey can make the process even more rewarding. By nurturing both your career aspirations and your family bonds, you can create a fulfilling life that includes the best of both worlds. I know something brought you here and maybe it was a search for what to do next about your career. There are a few ways I can help:
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Cheering you on!
Christine
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