Where do you start again in your fifth decade of life.?

[Skidmore]

I'm sitting here trying to figure out what I can do to jump start getting employement again and realizing full well that I may have to retool. In today's economy, I don't have much choice. I don't know if this is the right forum to post this thread on but I'm sure there are others out there like me and I could sure use some feedback or at least the experiences of others. I've had a difficult year--a bout with cancer and losing my job this spring. I was unable to go out and look for work right away because the year after diagnostic procedures made it difficult for me to function for a while. However, I've been told I'm now in remission and can anticipate remaining so. So here I sit without a job and a Masters degree in a field I'm not certain I'd like to continue in since the only advancement would be to go to the Ph.D. program and teach--something I don't want to do. I've a Masters in Rehab Counseling and I frankly don't have the energy or the will anymore to keep the type of hours that casework requires. I've worked in the area of health care research and public policy development for more than a decade, but funding is drying up. I can't see myself becoming a WallyWorld greeter quite yet, but one thing I know about myself is that I don't do well in retail. I can't just sell something I don't believe in. Not part of my nature. I don't know where to begin now. I feel out of touch. Been thinking about doing a paralegal training course and somehow using that with my Masters to maybe get involved with employment law. Don't know how much of a market there is for that type of work or if it is a realistic combination and am in the process of initiating contacts. Feedback from lawyer types would be welcomed.

I guess I just feel beaten down and at a loss. That this nation really doesn't care about much more than selling junk. That you can spend your whole life pursuing what you think is worthwhile and all that is deemed worthy for investment right now is selling junk. We're not even interested in making junk as a nation right now, just selling it. And that's not what I'm about as a person. I may have to sell junk for a while for income, but I'm not going to sell my soul.

Have you had to start from scratch again in terms of career? How did you go about it? Was it a huge change in focus for your life? How did you see something as an opportunity? How do you get past this numb feeling of being really well trained but not able to benefit from it in any way--even in terms of quality of life?

[Demeter]

1. When You Figure It Out, Let Me Know

You aren't alone. The trouble is, we had only 8 good years (Clinton)--it's been downhill since we graduated in the 70's.

The only people rewarded today are the crooks who steal what they take from everyone else. What kind of career path is that? Even were I capable of doing such a thing (no skill set) I wouldn't want to!

[kilgore65]

42. Ain't it the truth...

Under Clinton, I had a steady job making over $40k; now I do painting and home repairs for subsistence income. Given up looking for 'jobs', because there simply isn't anything out there... How much longer can this go on?

[TahitiNut]

50. "You aren't alone." Amen!

I hit that "fifty" wall thirteen years ago and my 'career' went into the shitter big time ... accelerated by a load of 'black balls' from being a whistleblower. Younger workers, I've found, have been ignoring the canaries in the employment coal mine. It's gonna get a lot worse before it gets better. We ignore these atrocities at our peril. I've been raising this alarm for over 20 years, even before getting hit myself, and the amount of rationalization and ostrich behavior has been appalling. There's a small increase in awareness and some buried and ignored leaks in the mainstream press regarding the abandonment of older workers reaching their fifties, but the appalling naivete and self-centeredness of "me first" younger workers ("I just wanna have fun!") has been disgusting. We've gone from a "no man is an island" to "every worker is flotsam" attitude in this country in a mere 50-60 years.

Until we actually see a workforce engaging in national strikes in Solidarity with one another, we're headed down the sewer.

[kilgore65]

64. US workers wouldn't know what a general strike is...

if it bit them on the ass. Younger workers are too busy with reality TV, NASCAR, and 'go'in to da club' to care...

[radwriter0555]

2. There is always a good business in tax preparation if you have a knack for

it, and it's something you can do at home. Also for notaries, they're in BIG demand all the time. It's easy to get certified. You market yourself to local real estate companies.

The H & R Block courses to learn tax prep are very, very good, and if you pursue it and really do good work, people will flock to you. It's a great business to do from home, for sure and your busy time is February through April, with extensions through August.

Just a thought.

[zanne]

17. It's boring, but Accounting can provide a good living.

And accountants are needed, in my part of the country, anyway.

[Virginian]

37. Tax Accounting is offshored these days.

A lot of accounting firms are sending their tax returns to India to be processed and the American accountants working for the firm just check the returns when they are sent back.

There are also a lot of YOUNG Indian men coming in on H-1B visas to compete with you for the entry level accounting jobs.

If you are going to go to all the trouble and expense of retraining in accounting, make sure there are accounting jobs in your area. My husband's company was bought and merged, so a lot of employees were laid off. It took him over 6 months to find a job, and even then, he settled for something he didn't like. He has a Masters and a CPA.

[radwriter0555]

40. The idea is to set up your own little shop in your dining room. I never

went to the corps for my household taxes, I went to my friend Jackie. That's how she makes her living...

[Sapere aude]

54. I went back to school when I was 35 to get an accounting degree

I'm 60 now and I have a steady job as a controller. I don't like where I'm working but I don't have much competition and I do a good job so I'm safe for now. I have a job because I acquired skills that are in demand. I would have liked to teach history but I knew I couldn't live on that income for long.

[kilgore65]

66. I used to work with a bunch of accountants...

and they were most back-biting, soul-less cretins that I've ever had the misfortune of being around. To me, that seems like a very tortured existence.

[kilgore65]

39. How do you become a notary?

[radwriter0555]

41. It's easy!

http://www.nationalnotary.org

[MADem]

3. How about TEACHING?

The good part--if you like kids, there's a plus! Summer vacations off, plus school holidays.

The bad bits--depends on your state how good the schools are overall; some districts better than others, some schools are pretty rough, pay varies...

You will need a few more courses in most states for certification, but it's steady work....

[PuraVidaDreamin]

4. I'll bet you be great at rehab counseling in a holistic setting

your own small studio perhaps- reiki, touch therapy, yoga,meditation

AS an RN I often think about taking that path.

good tidings

[acmejack]

5. Demeter beat me to it!

I haven't even had the courtesy of a response in four years! I have technical degrees, I retrained into computers in the mid nineties and went to Dell-great career move that LOL I have been laid off from the biggest and best Companies in America-GE, Westinghouse, Dell.

My health failed in no small part due to this stuff-no one wants a 54 YO engineer with a 5 year gap in his employment history and bad health. If not for the VA, I'd already be gone. So now my savings are down to $150, we will see what happens next. I've held on a long time-I'm Ok (if living on this pittance is living and feeling like this is a life) until they review my disability & decide I need to be working again, which I would rather be.

[acmejack]

7. snivel[/off]

[liberal N proud]

6. My brother spent 5 years without a job

He was a manager for one of the major air lines and in 2001 he was let go. He lost every thing. He finally is managing a Convenience Store but at much less than what he was making at the air lines.
He is 58

I know that is no help but you gotta know your not in this alone, It is the same all across America.

[acmejack]

11. Thanx for the kind words.

It is really tough on one's self esteem. I used to be a prideful person, I've been cured in a big way. A crash course in humility. I have lost everything as well my home and land, my relationships, I live in my Sister's guest house now (I'm lucky for that). I've come so very close to just saying to hell with it, I consider it every single day. I gave away an expensive pistol I used to own after coming very close to pulling the trigger.

[leftofthedial]

77. I'm there with ya, pal

people have value just as people. We are not what we do. We are not what we have. Be a friend to your friends and let them be friends to you. Find something you value to occupy your time.


At leas that's what I keep tellimg myself. It doesn't always work, but sometimes it does.

[ClintonTyree]

8. I can't help you there........

but I can offer my heartfelt sympathy for your situation. I haven't worked in 8 years (accident at work) and although I'm being taken care of financially by my ex-employer, my feeling of self-worth, being disabled and all, could use some boosting itself. But I'm dealing with it on a day by day basis and although I'm not on top of my game I realize that things things are the way they are and I accept that. It used to depress the hell out of me, but I've changed my point of view and things at least SEEM better. Enough about me.

The great thing about DU (ONE of the many great things) is the feedback from others in our community. You know that you're not in this alone, that other people are struggling as well. Although that doesn't put food on the table or increase you self-worth, it gives you a feeling that you're part of a community of brothers and sisters that DO sincerely care about your situation and will help in any way they can. Liberals are like that. ;) Just thank god you're not a Republican or you'd have to pull yourself up by the boot-straps and go through this alone! ;)

I hope you find some answers, Skidmore. I hope things fall in place for you and that a year from now you can look back at this point in your life, laugh and say, "what the hell was I so worried about". Just hang in there, we're all in this together. It WILL get better. Promise.

[Kolesar]

9. Visit the placement office at a local college for listings and ideas

With an emphasis on ideas. They may know something that can utilize your specific skills or broader skills.

Whatever you do, keep your chin up. I sympathize. Keep on living! :hi:

[izzie]

10. I am into Russia and their 5 year plan to be frank.

Only thing I ever thought they did right. I always had a day by day plan and where I wanted to be in 5 years. I have re-done my life over and over. I will say that I never made a plan that was not within reach. It worked for me. It still does and I am old. I just do not feel old.

[rosesaylavee]

12. There are some good posts above

and should all be considered as you explore. Have you contacted an employment agency? Sometimes a temp position - besides bringing in cash - could lead to a job with that company or with one of your co-workers connections. What is your passion? What would you like to do? Volunteer your time somewhere and let them know you are looking. Get out in the world and share your talents - for little or no money - just to get to network with other live humans. Sending resumes over the net or fax can be debilitating due to lack of the majority will not respond to your query - just the way the resume thing works I suppose.

Let us know how it works for you... there is a forum for job-related stuff but I agree that this is a GD issue as it is so pervasive right now. I spent 5 years underemployed and tried to find work elsewhere while I worked. I am now in the non-profit sector and working my *** off but feel that I am making a difference.

Hang in there! :hug:

[flordehinojos]

13. with so many suggestions, may i offer one more?

a vocational test (junior colleges used to offer them free) might point you in a direction that fits your personal likes and present needs. it sucks having to work at a job one does not like or does not have the motivation to do anymore. don't feel down and at a loss, which might be a way of saying one feels empty. what would you put into that empty to make you feel filled up again?

after i had surgery in 1998 i did not go back to work again (actually i did but only for about six months--and when the work place moved i quit.) i turned to the computer and to writing (not anything that provides me with an income so i--actually we-- did without a lot and we lived on my husband's income) for me that was the way of filling in my empty...and if you are in an area where there any good counselors (or if you have any good friends with a good ear) talking through the empty or the down and out feelings is a good way of sorting one's way through to a new direction.

(maybe even keep a diary. as you put it away and come back to it you might find a path already in it. you have already started on a path, i think. you already know that you don't want to go back to what you had before. i think that moving forward is about doing that which fills you, rather than that which fills your pocket. if you can marry the two then all the better for you. if you have to chose, going with what fills you is, from my point of view, the most important one.


:loveya:

[skip fox]

14. I have no idea. I've been lucky. But

teaching at the college level is extraordinarily rewarding. I've been doing it for 25 years and though I'm not natually suited for public speaking (or thinking), the classroom has become a site of intellelctual excitement and joy for most of students and myself. I've learned how not to think of it, I guess, as public speaking.

There's also an age difference (which grows every year, of course), and that helps me not be self-conscious, especially as I realize how little they know of my field (English) . . . and the very brightest are not bored because they like to speak to and listen to someone actively using his intelligence (it not that common away from the cities in the Deep South).

I want to re-open its possibility in your mind as one who did not think himself suited for teaching but who has found great delight in doing so. I went into it because it seemed the least boring, or it was the only thing I could project doing without loathing the work and probably beoming a drunk. I felt a lack of options like yourself.

[readmoreoften]

52. Yeah, but how do you pay the rent? I wouldn't advise him to teach.

I wouldn't steer anyone into college teaching-- especially in the humanities. The market is untenable. Only 40% of Yale grads in the humanities even get a tenure-track position. Most of us end up adjuncting for $2500 a course. If you landed a job, you're lucky. It's not a job you can get if you don't *really, really* want it. And even then you might not get it.

I have two friends who graduated Ph.D. in English from NYU last year, both with publications-- neither can even get a tenure-track job at a community college.

[Vinca]

15. My brother is about the same age with an MSW.

He had to find another job, too, and went through a couple of bad ones before he found something he could stand (plugging a home education program). On the side he's building a private counseling practice treating booze and drug problems (he's a recovered alcoholic). Apparently once you set up shop, if you have the required alphabet soup after your name, you can get on the roster with state programs and insurance companies. I think he's also done some school presentations. That might be something to consider. Survivors of serious illnesses often need similar services.

[IdaBriggs]

16. The last stat I heard was "THREE TIMES" for career change.

Sounds like you are on target. I say you take the skills you have, including your passion for using your brain, and "re-focus" yourself. Listen to some motivational tapes -- Anthony Robbins is AMAZING! -- or go to your local library and read the books.

One of the best questions on one of those tapes was "where do you want to be one year from now?" The follow up was "what's stopping you?" My question for you is this -- are you looking to coast for a while, or are you looking to contribute? What is your feeling on travel? Do you know how to use a video camera? If you like to travel (for example), why not go overseas somewhere (maybe Japan?) and teach English for a bit? Build up your wallet, expand your portfolio, and have some incredible experiences. Or join the peace corp and take your skills to some of the underprivileged. Or head down to one of the local charitable organizations, and start giving them some of your time and experience? What changes do you see as "necessary" in your community -- and what can you do to help make them happen?

You say you can "sell things you believe in" -- why not start an organization where you "sell" other people into providing skills or services to the people who need it in your community? Learn how to do a grant proposal to pay your basic bills, and then sweet talk your local companies into a) repairing homes for the elderly or b) creating low cost daycare for the working poor in your area or c) creating beds / getting dental care for the homeless? Shanghai and sweet talk your local junior and senior high schools into providing you cheap labor (where you can teach them how to do stuff like paint in an apprenticeship way) while they help others. Become a certified instructor for the American Red Cross, and do seminars at your local library on Emergency Preparedness.

Good God, Man! We so desperately *NEED* people with your skills and life experiences out here helping us out, its not even funny, and you are telling me that you've been sitting at home doing nothing and feeling like crap because you think no one wants you? That right there could be an incredible business opportunity -- finding ways to find other people like yourself who want to make a difference, and then showing them how to connect with other people who want to do the same. Public service may not pay well (ask your local teachers, firemen, and the policefolk!), but YOU CAN DO THIS!!!

[Skidmore]

18. Ida, I've spent the last two decades slogging through meeting

grant deadlines and reporting on them. I've been on-call 24-7 and worked regularly 60+ hours a week while trying to teach people a model of 8 hours of work, 8 hours of rest, 8 hours of recreation as a healthy model of living, while the organizations do not allow their employees to use the same model for their own lives. I've talked people out of suicide and into supervised settings for their safety, worked in the child welfare system supervising family visits, taught basic skills to people who forgot how to live outside of institutions due to long hospitalizations or mental health problems, and created and implemented groups for therapy. I've coordinated research projects and recruited subjects, conducted feasibility studies and written policy. I'm at a point where I myself am physically and emotionally tired, and while I want to be of service, I need a break from taking home other peoples' problems in my head and not being able to sleep at night because I know the phone may ring with a crisis on the other end. I cannot go back to case work now is all I am certain of right now.

[IdaBriggs]

36. So, you are at a "coast" point. (There is nothing wrong with that, by the

way.) When I say "coast" I mean "work eight hours a day doing something meaningful to you, collect a paycheck, and then go home!"

How odd is our society where such a thing is considered to be "coasting?" :evilgrin:

Please read my post again. Some of the things are just ideas, and do not have to involve you doing casework, especially if YOU put yourself in charge of your own scheduling (or are you like my husband and myself, where you sort of slide into crazy hours because you are a "whatever it takes to get the job done" type of person?).

One of the suggestions was "teach English as a second language in a foreign country." Limited hours, good money, great opportunity to recharge a bit. Its still a way to be of service to others, without sucking all of your own life force away. I yahoo'd the phrase, and this website was one of the many that came up -- http://teflpro.com/faq.htm#job -- they even help you find a job!

While its good to know what you DON'T want, its a much more challenging to figure out what you DO want. Start defining your dream job, and you will be amazed to discover that it really is out there (says the Eternal Optimist). If you want to talk to me personally, maybe I can help you a little bit with some of them. You are not the first person I know who is going through this stage of "stuck!" and sometimes talking to a stranger about what you want helps out. You can PM me if you want, and I will provide my private contact info.

You have TREMENDOUS skills. When you are ready to come back and throw yourself into the insanity of a passionate cause, there are a gazillion of them awaiting your time and attention. In the meantime, take a "re-charge" position -- pick a country, and get paid to explore it. Or, if you hate traveling, there are other questions to answer to help you find a comfortable position. I *know* you can do this!!! :)

(By the way, can you tell I'm a problem solver by trade? Snicker.)

[Skidmore]

46. Thanks, Ida.

I think I'm just feeling a little disconnected now. I certainly am not up to speed physically yet, but am getting there. I will tell you I do feel overwhelmed right now and know my limits. One of those limits is not being able or willing to shoulder other people's problems yet. I know that sounds selfish, but I've always been the one who people came to for solutions and assistance from the time I was very young. I guess I just want some time to heal for myself.

I have been thinking alot about doing something in terms of labor law, particularly as it relates to whistleblowing and ethics--something I know quite a bit about. I just know I'm not up to getting ready to take the LSAT or dealing with law school. It is something else to acquire paralegal skills and work in an associated field.

[ChairmanAgnostic]

19. heh, Believe me, I know the feeling.

Starting into my 5th, I quit my job for life, (partner in a medium sized firm) struck out on my own and have never looked back. that was 6-7 yrs ago.
I now do what I want to do, when and how. I have no boss, but myself and sense of duty to my clients. I get to do other things, like art and writing, a lot more frequently than before. It also helps that I have a wonderful partner.

Fearful? wondering if my client base will be large enough to support us? sure. Scary at times? yup. missing that support structure of secretaries, paralegals, law clerks, associate drones to do the dirty, time consuming shit? yup. But, not really, come to think of it.

[raccoon]

20. My thoughts and prayers are with you, Skidmore.

I was doing well in the '90's when I developed a disability and had to quit what I was doing.

I went back to take some classes in another field. I didn't get anything good in that field (that is, full time and with benefits), but am now in a related field. I like to tell people I'm happily underemployed (low pay and no benefits) but at least I'm happy doing what I'm doing.

I'm glad you got rid of the gun.

[Shipwack]

21. My cousin gave me a good bit of advice...

I have some similarities... I'm retiring from the military after 20 years, about to get divorced, and still not sure of what I want to be when I grow up, or even where I want to live...

She told me that I was incredibly lucky, since few people get a chance to completely start over. So I'm trying to look at it that way, and contemplating doing what I want to do, as opposed to doing what I have to do, or even doing what is prudent...

So look at it as an adventure Unlike most people just starting out, you know a bit about how the world works.. You probably have more skills and talents than you realize, and I heartily endorse the other suggestions about seeing a career counselor somewhere.

[laylah]

22. ..

:hug: Skidmore. I, too, am in a similar boat; however, I am 55 with a BS in Social Work. Had done that kind of volunteering for YEARS when I decided it was time to get paid for it. And we all know how much SW get paid :rofl: I went back to school in the late '90's and graduated with honors six weeks before my 50th birthday.

Anyway, after my "Menopausal Moment" a little over 4 years ago, I wound up in an alternate Universe. I have had 4 jobs in my field here, only to find those in charge with an incredible lack of integrity and honor! My last job was with a non-profit. I asked a JCO (a.k.a. Probation Officer) for help and insight with working with African American adolescent girls in a day treatment program, which in turn, would make me a better care provider. This wench turned it around into a negative and I was fired two weeks ago! I am on the verge of losing my house, my car, my sanity. I, too, feel beaten down and at a loss. I love my field but it is the powers that be I cannot comprehend. I find myself turning into the kind of person I have always detested...one that can suck the energy out of a room the minute they walk in. I have no answers, but if I come up with any, I will be sure to share.

Thanks for "listening" and again :hug:.

Jenn

[intheflow]

31. Was going to offer this suggestion skidmore, but he's burnt out

in social work (rehab). But if you aren't burnt out in SW, and are able to do it, the Gulf Coast has a tremendous need for people with social work expertise. If you're interested, even to come down to "tet run" the idea/region, pm me and I'll see what I can do to gt you down here. And thanks for caring so much about your fellow humans! :hug:

[uppityperson]

51. Sibling is considering this

has worked for yrs helping people with money (real estate) and is getting tired of it, burning out on it. Has realized recently that it is time to start doing more socially necessary work, trying to figure out how, what, where. I think that many groups like mature adults (50+) to work in their organizations, office work, publicity, organizing, etc since they are usually decent at working with people without their own egos taking over and are capable of multi-tasking. I know, not all of us 50+ are like this, but with age can come experience that leads to this.

[durrrty libby]

23. Are you handy around the house?

Throw an ad in the paper

Rent a husband...Honey Do...No job too small

Best of luck :hi:

[Tesha]

24. We could start a club....

feeling worn out? used up? join today!

I think your idea of going back to school for a new direction is a great idea, and law sounds less stressful while still being true to yourself as a helpful human.

But if you need a job, did you consider tutoring? Sometimes being with kids can be a very healing experience - youth, vitality, excitement - The experience might give you back something you've been missing.

[mnhtnbb]

25. Get a copy of "What Color Is Your Parachute" and read it.

Do the exercises. The suggestion to get some vocational guidance testing/counseling at a jc is also a good one.

Good luck. Hope you can figure out what you love doing and find a way to generate an income from it. That's really the key.

[Skidmore]

26. Do you know how many printings of that book I own?

It was required reading for my vocational counseling course in the Masters' program. I'm trying to think outside the box right now though. And that for me represents the box.

[mnhtnbb]

28. In that case, I'd sit down in a beautiful place and call up all my

memories of when I was happiest. What was I doing? Where was I?
Who was with me? How did I feel when I got up in the morning?
How did I feel when I went to sleep at night? What had I done during the day that made me feel good? What was I looking forward to doing that made me feel good?

Skidmore, the answer is within. (Duh, you know that.) This is an opportunity to start over. Go for it! But you have to get in touch
with the times in your life when you were excited, fulfilled, hopeful in order to find the answers.

You can do it.

[LeftHander]

27. Make your own way

And maybe focus on something small and local.

Maybe something as simple as a cart...selling ice cream.

Be a Bartender in a upscale restuarant in a hotel. They like mature reliable bartenders. With you past skills with people you would probably like the job. If you are okay with being on your feet.

Sell something on a level that makes your interaction a one to one event.

Open a BBQ stand or Coffee house in a area that doesn't have one. Open a self help book store...hell do a combo of all three...how cool is that...

Coordinate subscription coop farms programs. Open a local organic food market.

sell wine and beer making supplies...brew your own beer!

Be your own boss. And use your life skills to GIVE something of yourself to the community....

At 50 if I had to start over...I would try something along that lines.

Good luck and look local. Small

[tpsbmam]

29. Some ideas......

When I look at all of the responses, I see others in the same boat and I've met MANY in recent years that are also 50 or over and need start over. Soooooooooooo.....

What about starting a consulting business offering businesses a wide variety of seasoned professionals to address problems? Or a narrower variety with a specific focus? Though I have trouble picturing this model as being successful with big corporations, it may well be a success if you target working with small businesses, start-ups, and nonprofit groups.

Based on everything you've said, you yourself have multiple skills and work experiences that would lend themselves to helping nonprofits in specific. There are many who are either retired and need extra cash (or are bored with retirement) or who are starting over who would be well-suited for consulting: computer/tech folks, CPAs, human resources professionals, grant writers, advertising professionals, successful small business owners, etc etc. Those who are social workers, counseling and similar professions could be wonderful and invaluable consultants to businesses (big corporations often have these services built in) and invaluable in terms of helping folks who are trying to find their way through the 50 and over morass.

It would definitely require energy and determination to make it work, but it's a possibility. If you know one or two others in the same boat, a joint venture would make it much easier than trying to pull something like that off alone.

In the short-term, I go with a couple of suggestions above -- teaching, for one, is a great outlet. I teach college level courses after retiring early due to health (MS) and family reasons -- it keeps my mind active and I truly love it. I only teach a class a semester, but most folks who do that teach more. There aren't any benefits, which sucks, but as a short-term cashflow solution, it might help and you might find that you like it

I know AARP is a dirty "word" among many, but check out their list of best employers for workers over 50 -- maybe there are some in your area that have appealing jobs open:
http://www.aarpmagazine.org/lifestyle/Articles/a2003-09-17-bestemployers.html

There's a good article in the AARP magazine about this:
http://www.aarpmagazine.org/lifestyle/Articles/a2003-09-17-greatjobs.html

Or offering consulting on your own. Market yourself using all of the skills you've built up over the years. Companies are hiring more and more consultants -- it allows them to avoid paying benefits.



So happy to hear you're in remission and your prognosis is good -- that's something to definitely celebrate!

[displacedtexan]

30. www.idealist.org

Click "Jobs" in the right sidebar and do some searches.

You never know what might inspire you on that site.

[mwb970]

32. I started over at 54.

After losing my 26-year job in computer research, I spent 6 months sending out resumes and pursuing job leads with absolutely NO RESPONSE from anyone, ever. So I decided to turn my lifelong love of music and audio technology into a new job - I started an on-location recording company. I record band gigs and rehearsals, piano and vocal recitals, and school concerts. Then I make CDs that the musicians and schools can sell for publicity or profit. Surprisingly, nobody else in my town is doing this.

I'm much happier now! I find myself going to places and events I never would have seen and meeting cool people I never would have met sitting in my cubicle crunching Excel data. Everyone (so far) has been pleased with the results and the process.

The downside is, I don't yet have enough customers to make a living from, so I do free-lance editing of Japanese scientific papers on the side for additional income. I'll never make my old salary again, but I love my new life!

(My company website is at http://www.columbusrecording.com, if you're interested.)

[DTinAZ]

45. link is broken

due to punctuation...should be:

http://www.columbusrecording.com

Peace,
DT

[mopinko]

33. work for the dnc?

if you can afford to live on what they pay at a non profit, there are a lot of jobs out there.
i hear ya. tho. i am 52, been a full time mom for the big chunk of my adult life. trying to make it as an artist. finally getting my health back after a 10 year slide into mostly stress-induced illness and chronic pain. luckily i earned a good "pension", a great hubby with a great job.
but i always did volunteer stuff here and there, and i knew i could get a job doing what i did for free. i just wouldn't get paid much.
maybe you could be part of the 50-state plan.
:hug: tho, for starting over at 50. it sucks.

[lumberjack_jeff]

34. At risk of too much sharing, perhaps this will help

After 20 years in the engineering field, I took a job as a mid-manager at a local medium-technology company. After three years, including struggling through the worst of the dot-com crash, I was laid off in March 2003, shortly after my youngest was diagnosed with Autism.

Although I have good, portable skills, without a degree, my resume is never viewed by human eyes. The resume scanner software categorizes it without regard to work experience. I did some technology sales for 6 months or so, and I neither liked it, nor were the supports available (at the company) to succeed.

On the plus side, for the 20 years I worked in engineering, I saved 20% of my pay - religiously. We had enough assets - just no income.

A big family reset was in order. Mrs Lumberjack returned to work as a bookkeeper, we sold our house and bought property in the country. I am building us a new one while we live in a single-wide mobile on the property.

I hope my story provides hope. It's actually worked out well for us. I'm fit, I lost 40#, I've become reconnected to my kids, I volunteer for The Arc, I've developed new skills (although being a general contractor is an option, it's not my first choice) I've done some work for neighbors (buying a tractor was a good investment) and it's broadened my horizons. Being a carpenter/electrician/mason/tilesetter/roofer/plumber was not on my radar screen when I was flailing around in the first few months of my unemployment, but I'm glad I did it. According to the appraisal of the house, it was a good financial move too. B-)

My advice: now may be a time to not only follow your passions, but to find out what they are. When considering your options, don't leave anything off the table. Physical work outside may be something that will help with your recovery. :shrug:

People, americans in particular, have become used to the idea that our identities are synonymous with what we do. It ain't so.

[teryang]

35. I started over at 50, 53, now unemployed again at 55

My solution was to apply for the most undersireable work and then work my butt off. Didn't work, it was self delusional. I just couldn't keep it up anymore.

I'm just kind of hanging out waiting for an inspiration or looking for an opportunity. Meanwhile, things are deteriorating financially much more rapidly than the last time I was out of work.

Most people tell me that at this age you have to start your own business. The market for over 50 is not good.

[Totallybushed]

38. I had a similar

exeperience about 15 years ago. I went back to school and got an advanced degree. While it cost me a lot, I've since made it up in increased earnings and career enjoyment.

However, not everyone one can, or wants to, take that path. I hope that you won't think me facetious, this is an alternative that I considered. The world will always need plumbers. Also cook, electricians, machinists, etc.

Good luck.

[Virginian]

43. Every time there is a Bush in office we have a war and I get laid off.

The last time I was only out of work for a year, this time, Bush got a second term.
For the first three years, I didn't get a reason other than, "Another candidate was better qualified." My last feedback reason was, "You have been out of work too long."

I have applied nearly everywhere, so when I had a promising opportunity through a head hunter, I wasn't placed because I had already applied directly to the company.
He wouldn't get a fee since they already had my resume on file.

I am doing a little freelance work that I hope to put on my resume so that I don't look like I was sitting around eating bonbons and watching soap operas while I was out of work.

I have been the busiest I have ever been. I sometimes wonder how did I work and get everything else done, too? I do know I didn't spend as much time on DU while I was working. I didn't know as much about the crooks who are leading our government. One good thing that has come out of my time "between jobs," I have tried to compress the news and feed it to our employed friends so they know what's going on and can share it with their friends. Maybe someone I don't know will vote correctly next time because otherwise they wouldn't have known anything other than what is on the MSM.

Bush won't be in office forever, I will resume employment.

[The Straight Story]

44. I started over again when I was 30

Went from security guard, to cop, to manufacturing. Then I got in the computer field and have stayed here a little of 10 years.

Never easy, but I loved computers and let that drive me. Took me years to go from 6-12/hr to where I am now though, and several job changes.

When I am 50, maybe I will just take up directing porn movies :)

[Skittles]

47. I'm with you Skidmore

I'm 49. desperately want out of my field, will no doubt be forced out sooner or later but have little direction in how to proceed. It is scary, keeps me from sleeping well.

[grasswire]

48. to all on this thread

There is one opportunity that has worked for tens of thousands of people to either bridge a gap or build a whole new career, and that's eBay.

Think of it. You have a global retail outlet open 24 hours per day 7 days per week, with no overhead costs but a small fee for each item listed and sold. No brick and mortar, no insurance-marketing-staffing-other costs of doing business. You go to "work" whenever you wish, and you check the computer each morning to see how much $$ you made during the night.

And if you sell what you love, it's a delicious business! You can either sell things at auction or you can build an online storefront. You can position yourself with a product related to your prior education and experience as a specialist. Or you can take off in a whole new hobby-related niche. Or you can fill a need you've observed somewhere in life. Or you could market an invention. Or you could sell your own art work or photos. The opportunity is endless, and you really can make a lot of money with little investment.

It really does work. Your efforts are paying your own self, not an employer. Work harder, make more for yourself, not for a corporation or employer. Work in your pajamas if you wish.

I've been selling antique and collectible paper items for eight years on eBay. It's been emotionally, intellectually and financially rewarding. I can't imagine ever again wanting to work for someone else, with all the hoopla required. Life's too short.

There are plenty of eBay sellers on DU who would be willing to give advice to anyone who wants to start up.

Good luck, skidmore. You're not alone.

[earth mom]

49. Lots of good suggestions on this thread!

Here's my 2 cents:

Find a way to do whatever it is that YOU LOVE. I've always hated having a "boss" and 18 years ago after losing a job I hated in the first place, I was determined to be my own boss and consequently found several creative ways to make ends meet by doing something I loved to do. 11 years ago, I became a stay at home mom but due to the worsening job market which adversely effected my husbands income, our family had several rocky years and I just couldn't continue as before. Now things are better for our family, my hubby has a better job, our kid is older and so I am now able to focus more on myself and what I want to do. My new direction is to express my creativity by making hand made items to sell on eBay. I'm been researching the items I'm interested in and have found that there is a good income to be made. I'm learning my craft now and haven't made a single dime yet, but I feel positive that I'm heading in the right direction.

Here's a couple of books that may be helpful to you:

http://www.amazon.com/Gift-Year-Meaningful-Satisfying-Pleasurable/dp/0452282144/sr=1-1/qid=1158337776/ref=pd_bbs_1/104-1212105-3923168?ie=UTF8&s=books

http://www.amazon.com/Your-Money-Life-Relationship-Independence/dp/0140286780/sr=8-1/qid=1158335681/ref=pd_bbs_1/104-1212105-3923168?ie=UTF8&s=books

http://www.amazon.com/What-Should-Do-My-Life/dp/0375507493/sr=1-1/qid=1158336821/ref=pd_bbs_1/104-1212105-3923168?ie=UTF8&s=books

Good Luck! :hi:

[Wiley50]

53. At 50, I'm learning to live on $603/month SSI disability

In the early '70's, when I started college, I hated it. I had already had my fill of school.
I saw my future as a writer and wanted to get out of the small southern town where I grew up
and get some real life experience. I also was certain that the revolution was at hand. So I
ran off to join the hippies. Serendipitously, I was very successful at this and met and became
friends with many famous leaders of the counter-culture. I hope to soon become settled enough
to, finally, write the memoirs of that adventure.

My adventures ended in 1981, with the birth of my first child. As my wife wasn't suited to a
hippy lady's life of washing cloth diapers, I had to find a real job to pay for the pampers.
I had, occasionally, been helping a friend install carpet, when he needed me,and,since it paid
much more than delivering pizzas, I went into the business for myself.

Bottom line. Twenty years later I have serious degenerative disk disease with progressive nerve damage.
Being self-employed, I had carried no workman's comp. Although for most of the time I had paid in FICA
the last five years, as my disability developed, I wasn't making enough to pay my house payments and FICA too.
So I wound up only eligible for SSI. It took three and a half years for it to go through from the time I filed.
In that time I lost both house and wife.

I had that time to think about how I would be able to maintain an acceptable lifestyle on so little money.
My hobby for years had been sailing,so when I got my back payments from SS, I bought a 28 ft sailboat to live on.
I'm currently refitting it and hope to be back in the water soon.

My largest monthly expense is my wireless data card that I am using for internet access. If I stay in a marina, I can
get a slip for $180 a month including utilities. If I anchor out I can save that. I supplement my diet with fresh fish
and when I go down river to the gulf in winter, I can trap crab and trawl shrimp. Life can be good on $603 a month
if you own your own boat and your favorite activity is hanging out on DU. My phone is a Skype account for $38/year.

You'll find what works for you, Have faith.

[Wiley50]

55. kick n/t

[donco6]

56. I'm looking at the possibility myself.

I'm investigating a franchise that offers math tutoring to schoolkids. I think it would be satisfying. I've had my own business before and have no allusions that I'm going to make a lot of money. But if I got enough to pay the bills and be happy with what I do, what more could you want?

[formernaderite]

57. working with addicts you probably have good people skills

I'd look at mortgage loan jobs....usually partially comission based. I know alot of guys who got injured in construction who went into this. Some made ocntacts with appraisers while they worked, and took appraisal classes on the side...they then had jobs lined up after they did their appraisal licensing classes. It's not bad money.

[Swamp Rat]

58. My 2¢:

Get that PhD! You might enjoy going to school again!

Then you could look for even better employment opportunities, or maybe become a private consultant where you set your own hours and become your own boss. ;)

[Fiendish Thingy]

59. I'll be 50 a year from now,

about 4 years ago I switched from management position in a mental health agency to a direct service (therapist) position with the county dept. of alcohol and drug services, a specialization I didn't have any experience with. Although it was stressfull, it was challenging, and with some hard work and support of more experienced peers and managers, I've learned a lot and improved my skills. I went from being burned out to being energized and looking forward to going to work each day. (a little pay raise didn't hurt either).

Skidmore, you may not have to start from scratch, or re-invent the wheel;there may be other jobs you are qualified for that you're not aware of. You may need some time and support to sort out your options and develop a plan. You may want to consider therapy/career coaching and maybe evaluation for a short trial of anti-depressant medication. For me, it was helpful to clear my mind, reduce my stress, and, with support, create my action plan.

Of course, that's quite a personal decision, and YMMV.

As we approach the midterms, along with my 50th birthday, I face another potentially daunting challenge:
If the dems don't take at least one house of congress and begin investigations into the shredding of our constitution, and/or the Republicans steal yet another election, then I will begin the process of emigrating to Canada. Talk about starting over! As scary as the thought of uprooting my family is, having gone through my recent career shift makes it seem a little less so, even kind of exciting...

Anyway, good luck to you Skidmore, I hope you find what you're looking for...

[nmliberal]

60. Consider a position with Boys & Girls Clubs

...or Big Brothers/Big Sisters or something along that line. OK, the pay ain't great, but the perks include feeling good about going to work, hugs from the kids.

I went through a period of time when I couldn't face the world, had lost my job being falsely accused, felt no hope. I am now 55 years old and feel better than ever.

Please know you are in my thoughts and I'm sending you good vibes.

[Herman Munster]

61. I suggest you go to usajobs.gov

and apply for any policy type federal government job. I'm sure some federal agency FDA, CDC, Health and Human Services would be interested in your experience.

Even if you have to get in at the bottom and just be an administrative assistant, the key is to get your foot in the door somewhere and work your way up.

The benefits are outstanding and when you consider the pay you are getting while only working 40 hours a week with all the leave you get, the pay is very good as well.

Private sector pays more but on an hourly basis it's about the same. You get paid more in private sector, but you also work a hell of a lot more and have zero job security.

It's very, very, very hard to fire a career tenured government employee.

[FogerRox]

62. I am starting another career, I'm a bit younger, 48 now.

I was recruited for the Kerry Campaign, quit my job in NJ, went to FL for a month. It was great, if you like working with people consider organizing, I am into Campaign Field operations, took the 3 day Camp Wellstone seminar after the 2004 election, work P/T in the Corzine for GOv campaign, and I am in the thick of the battle for the house here in NJ. I am organizing some fundraising events too, money is always good & gets the candidates attention.

I am fighting back, and it feels great. Being able to deliver a little kick ass to repubs can be good therapy, LOL


So when you make the big time.. dont forget your brothers & sisters here at DU... OK ?

[Th1onein]

63. I am always looking for people to do a worthwhile job.

Write to my email, and I'll give you my phone number. [e-mail]

[kerry-is-my-prez]

65. Yes - started my own web design business - much better than commuting

and dealing with bosses/office politics. Take some computer classes in something you might be interested in: Dreamweaver for web design, etc.

[NuttyFluffers]

67. learn another language and run away.

seriously. i think my generation, the 20-somethings are pretty much there. i'm seeing a significant brain drain in our numbers. there's just no worthwhile opportunity here now. it's time for us to run away, explore the world, pay off our student loans, and wait out the stupidity going on here.

50 somethings?... that's harder. probably go to new zealand? go back to school, take out lots of student loans, and go study abroad for a few years hoping that either a) better things happen in this country or b) make enough contacts abroad to restart life.

or take out a loan, seek a grant, and try to start a new business in the current double dip recession economy... yeah.... well, it could work.

[Lydia Leftcoast]

68. I restarted in my fourth decade of life

I lost my academic job, and the jobs that were available in my field involved more work for less money, so I set out to realize an idea that had been floating around in my mind for ten years: becoming a Japanese-English translator.

I got a textbook editing job to tide me over, but within two years, I had a clientele. Unfortunately, being self-employed means that you're vulnerable in a different way than the person who works for a company. The Asian currency crisis of 1997 and 9/11 both wrecked my income stream temporarily. However, I have always recovered.

Being a translator blends two of my greatest loves, languages and writing, and sometimes I even get to translate material in one of my other areas of interest.

My monthly earnings vary tremendously. That and the lack of employee benefits are the greatest disadvantages. There are compensations, too, such as being able to take tax-deductible and subsidized trips to Japan. In addition, I control my own time even more than academics do. While I have to be at the beck and call of my clients to a certain extent, I can also go shpping or make dentists' appointments in the middle of week during the day or take long lunch breaks.

Sometimes I miss the classroom, but then I think about faculty politics and publish or perish pressure, and I realize that I'm better off where I am. Most of my friends who are still in academia are depressed.

I'm the first person in my entire extended family who has gone free-lance, so it was scary at first. Fortunately, before leaving academia, I happened to meet a lot of people who were self-employed, and they encouraged me to go for it.

If I hadn't, I would have ended up as an embittered "academic gypsy," moving from state to state, chasing down one one- or two-year, low-paying job after another.

[unkachuck]

69. stop getting....

....your self-worth and meaning for life from your job....you can't do anything about the things you can't do anything about....

....what do you enjoy doing besides work?....then do it!...

....reduce all your bills to an absolute minimum....find a flunky-job to pay those bills and spend the rest of your time doing what you really like to do....but whatever it is you like to do, don't do it for money....

[eridani]

70. Any talent for being a Mr or Ms. Fixit?

Odd repair jobs can keep you in meals. My husband has been doing this for years. (Of course, I have a real job and am within two years of retirement.)

No significant other in your life? It doesn't have to be a sexual thing--just a person or two to whom you pledge total loyalty, including staying with them even if you marry or pair up sexually with someone else.

[truth2power]

71. Skidmore - please check your inbox. n/t

[eridani]

72. All of us need to work for UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE!

Now! Everybody in! Nobody out! Then all these entrepreneurial self-employment gigs would be far more feasible for people of any age to do.

[tomreedtoon]

73. A few odd suggestions.

First, like most people, you probably had a lot of your psychic life invested in your job. When it ended, you felt numb and empty.

This is a good time to stop and look at yourself. As a person in Rehab Counseling you probably have advised others to do that. Time to apply it to your own life.

If you need an outside source for this, I recommend Susan Jeffers's books, "Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway" and "End the Struggle and Dance with Life." They're also on audiotape, and probably available at your library.

She speaks about drawing nine boxes on a piece of paper, and filling them with the things that involve your life. One box is "job," another is "friends," one is "service to the public" and so on. Then you make sure that every box gets some of your time. That way, if one box drops out, you still have other causes to support you.

Her most important saying is one you should repeat to yourself all the time. "Whatever it is, I'll handle it." You can always take some kind of action to improve your life. Just reminding yourself that you are a good, intelligent, loving and thinking person will help you find a new way into your life.

She also recommends the book "Man's Search for Meaning" by concentration camp survivor Victor Frankel. Sounds grim, but here's a quote from her web site (at http://www.susanjeffers.com) about the book:

"We who lived in concentration camps can remember the men who walked through the huts comforting others, giving away their last piece of bread. They may have been few in number, but they offer sufficient proof that everything can be taken away from a man but one thing: the last of the human freedoms--to choose one's attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one's way. The way in which a man accepts his fate and all the suffering it entails, the way in which he takes up his cross, gives him ample opportunity--even in the most difficult circumstances--to add a deeper meaning to his life."

As I finished reading Man’s Search for Meaning, I knew I would never again experience fear with the same intensity I had experienced it before reading the book. I knew that if Frankl was able to create something positive out of his experience, which was the most horrible my mind could imagine, then I--and everyone else--could create value out of anything life could possibly hand us. It is a matter of remaining conscious that we have the choice.

And to give you the quotation that could make all the difference in your life as it made in mine...

''Everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of the human freedoms--to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one’s own way.''

[zonkers]

74. First off, fifty aint that old. Second, you are an excellent writer...

The responses to your post are a testament to your ability to express yourself. Keep your mind and options open. Beating cancer no doubt gives you an interesting perspective.

I think you might talk to a headhunter or a job specialist.

And considering what you have been through, it might not hurt to speak to a therapist. Sometimes you can get free or reduced cost sessions through different state programs.

Hang in there. You have a wealth of experience and could be a big help to others.

[Liberal In Texas]

75. Did it. Done it. I'm 57.

Never been happier in my life. I don't work every day of the week, and that suits me.

Before they chucked me, I started planning. I now work as a freelancer video guy who makes tons of $. I mean perhaps not tons, but I had a job in Houston 3 weeks ago where I broke my all time one day record. About $1100 per day. Had dinner with my son that night, and he paid. (That was strange, because as the dad, and I normally do.)

At any rate...

I did a career change to something I liked doing. Something that I have a knack for. And I just went after it.

I spent thousands getting certified, buying equipment, finding a house that would accomodate my "office", a truck (SUV), and passing all the tests they thew at me by studying hard.

At 57, I now walk into posh law offices with my gear. I wear a coat and tie, and a good pair of slacks. I set up and am on the clock from then on. One hour set up. One half to strike, or take down. The minimum I'll work for is $65 per hour. I go up to $115 per hour. I have turned down jobs for $50 per hour. Not worth it.

I don't have to work every day of the week, so I can putter around in my back garden, if I wish. Or fly my RC helicopter.

I just got back from DC at a conference about what I do. (I probably spent around $1500 to go, and didn't blink an eye). One of the things that happened while I was there, was that I sat with a guy from my city (he works for a really large national firm) after showing some pictures my stuff, my set-up, and my phylosophy. He said, "Why is it that don't you work for us?" I answered. "I haven't been asked." I'm pretty sure I'll now will be asked, and so have another venue in a few weeks, if I want it.


Life is good, at 57.

If I could find my niche, you can do it too.

I only wrote this to give some encourgement, not to brag or to be full of myself.
Look for the things that you like to have fun with. Hobbies, that kind of thing.
Then, go pro. You'll love your life and make some bucks.

(any grammar or spelling errors - I apologize, it's late. -L)





Yessir. You can do it too.

Keep us posted.

[Skidmore]

76. Guys, I just spoke with the head of the Paralegal Program

and we went over my background and education. She told me that I was an ideal candidate for the program and she could still get me into her one intro class, which got off to a late start. All I need to do is show up next Monday. She also told me that after a couple of months in the program, I would be eligible to apply for legal scretary jobs to help finance my education until completing the program. The entire program would cost about $3000 + books.

Don't even have to complete credit transfers until later in the term. I'm so gosh darn nervous. I don't know whether to just go for it next Monday or hold off till spring term.

[lonestarnot]

78. Don't be nervous. But I don't recommend starting off behind. You will

be highly frustrated. I've read your accomplishments thus far, and you will not have a problem succeeding, but watch those private schools they are a rip off. Did you check with a community college? Much cheaper and usually better program if credentialed by the bar in your state.

[Skidmore]

79. This is a community college.

She said the class only met 2x, mostly because she needed to be at a conference one week and then Labor Day took a meeting away. Said she would be willing to get me up to speed for the first two classes.

[lonestarnot]

80. Well that's not so bad then. You could do that.