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How have your career goals changed as you and your children have aged?
I have teens now and I am ramping up my career like I haven't done since I was in my 20s. I am putting the pieces in place to earn a masters, I am applying to jobs that require travel and I am willing to commute further. I want that big salary and the corner office! I am 46 now and have to work for another 20 years, it's time to soar!
I have noticed the same behavior changes in myself as well. I have an increased desire to freshen up my skills and certification, take on new and time consuming challenges. I am only half way through my career, there is so much more to do and I am excited about the future!
I have 3 teenagers and 2 of them will be headed to college next year. I am looking at being an empty nester soon. But I think what really opened my eyes was when I realized their calendars were full of school, extracurricular, and social engagements while my husband I were sitting at home. So we filled our calendars with personal and professional enriching activities such as sports lessons, long drives together, professional conferences and groups (Fairygodboss). Now we all are busy and feeling productive!
Now that 2/3 of my kids are teens I've gotten so much more studying done. Capped 2020 with a PMP, a new business and a refreshed drive for remote working assignments.
I'm in a similar situation, less the travel (I have no desire). Last year I focused on my HR certification, this year I want to focus on HR analytics and who knows what 2022 will bring. We still have quite some time to go, let's work on our development - who knows what it can bring!