© 2022 Fairygodboss. All rights reserved.
Hi Fairygodbosses! I am writing here on behalf of my mom because I love and want the best for her.
She has been working at a non-profit for the last 9 years and has become miserable at work. She wants a career change but doesn't know what she wants to do or how to get there. She is only now making the salary she should be making at 58 years old and I think that holds her back from taking a chance and leaving her company. Does any fairygodbosses here have some advice or resources for a middle-aged woman looking for a career change (and feels like a life change)? How can my mom build her confidence and self-worth to go after what truly makes her happy (or at least start trying to figure it out?) Appreciate any of your thoughts.
Anonymous
03/02/18 at 4:54AM UTC
What has she aways loved to do or done as a hobby or as a volunteer - has she ever though about starting her own business? Has she taken some evening or online courses? Can she take a leave of absence? Basically though She needs to sit down with herself, have a conversation with herself, and be brutally honest with what has worked and not worked. Make a pro’s con’s list. One for staying - what does she need to change at this current job to make it continue to work FOR her. If she is not happy I am sure others may be also noticing her hearts not in it. One for leaving - what has she been afraid to try? Maybe now is the time to do it. All the platitudes and good wishes in the world won't change how we feel about life, if it truly sucks. What will happen is that the body or the job will in some way shut down and make her leave - because emotionally she is actually telling it to. Then her options maybe even fewer than now. Best she be open to change before all the doors close. :)
Anonymous
03/23/17 at 5:48PM UTC
I would recommend that she put her resume together and then, perhaps, speak with a resume building professional. I think for a lot of people putting themselves out there after being in the same position for a long time is truly difficult. If she sat down with someone who could help her with her resume, she would be able to better focus on what she has to offer, how to properly word those skills, and make herself very marketable to a future employer.
If she likes her current salary, she should take her time in finding a new position, but she has to start looking. The right career will come her way!
Anonymous
03/11/17 at 3:10PM UTC
Your mom sounds amazing! It sounds like she should definitely explore a career change. Like any other career changers, I would strongly suggest that she start networking before making any type of formal change. Since she is at a not-for-profit, there may be some strong connections within range - for example, board members or large donors. Mostly, I think you should try to build up her confidence as much as possible! That will matter. Good luck!
© 2022 Fairygodboss. All rights reserved.