Creating Your Legacy in The Second Half of Your Career

If you’re in your mid-40s, you’re probably only half-way through your career. The average person retires in their upper 60s, but retirement age is likely increasing. For those in their 50s or 60s, the outlook may be uncertain, with opportunities seemingly scarce. You’re never too old (or young) to reassess the trajectory of your career.

Are you currently on auto-pilot or are you being intentional? As you move forward, your options are different and many of the opportunities in front of you may not be apparent.

Many people I speak with in their 40s and 50s have expressed feeling stuck or facing uncertainty with how the latter half of their career will look. They share concerns over burnout, lack of security (especially with those in corporate), and a desire to better define their purpose.

Unlike when you started career, the path is much less clearly defined. The resources available were plentiful and easily accessible. Your major or which companies recruited on-campus may have dictated what your immediate steps were upon college graduation.

What legacy do you want to create with the second half of your career? There’s no better time to evaluate your career and create an action plan than now. Here are some actions I encourage you to take.

1. Assessment & Reflection – identify your strengths, core values, and passions

2. Purpose & Meaning in Work – reflect on what aspects of your career thus far mean the most and why. What sense of purpose do you want to feel through your career?

3. Ideation – brainstorm options that are related to your current work and most ambitious aspirations. Explore different industries, functions, business structures (ex. Freelancing vs. entrepreneurship vs. partnerships), and alternative options like non-profits

4. Lifelong Learning & Skill Development – identify skills you may need to learn and upskill. Consider the resources you may need including new technology – and don’t be intimidated!

5. Financial Planning – evaluate your financial situation and speak with your financial advisor. Look at investments/savings, retirement plans, and benefits

6. Networking – leverage and expand your network to learn about different options and opportunities

7. Coping with Ageism – be ready to compete against younger people who demand less compensation. Agism is real and it’s important to consider how to overcome it

8. Retirement – assess when and where you want to retire as well as a transition plan (even if you think it’s 40 years away)

9. Create an Action Plan – challenge yourself and create SMART goals

I look forward to hearing about your plans. Reach out and let’s talk about setting your goals, getting you the resources you need, and overcoming challenges, so you can start the journey towards your legacy today!