Learning is a continuous process. No matter how old you are, there’s always something new to discover. Take your career, for example. You might think you know it all, but you most likely don’t.
Here’s six things you’re never too old learn…
It’s okay to want to try something new
Changing career paths doesn’t make you flaky. If your corporate job isn’t fulfilling, or manual work is tiring you out, it’s okay to try something new.
Career happiness comes from feeling valued, engaged and interested in your work – not from how much you earn or what your title is.
Even if you’ve been in the same industry or company for the past 20 years and think you can’t do anything else, let us tell you; you can! You set up imaginary barriers in your mind, but by crossing them you will truly set yourself free and end up doing what makes you happy.
Find something you love and it won’t feel like work
Money or status shouldn’t be the deciding factors when choosing a job. Obviously, everyone needs money, and it helps a lot, but if you hate your high-paid job and dread going to work every day, is it really worth it?
When you love what you do, you’ll be surprised that you feel like you aren’t working at all. You’ll look forward to going into work, feel happier and more rewarded at the end of the day.
Of course, learning a new skill or finding your way in a different industry will be hard, but worth it. Life is too short to stay in a job you’re unhappy in.
Being scared is good
What-ifs and imagining worst-case scenarios can stop you from taking a leap of faith and really challenging yourself in your career. You might be comfortable in your current job, but are you stimulated and inspired?
Feeling frightened about taking a new direction is a good thing – it means you’re onto something great. So many people quit their office jobs to go freelance, or start up their own business, or move to a different city for their dream job - and they’re all scared to begin with. Those keep-you-up-at-night thoughts are usually positive indicators that it’s time for change.
Success starts from within
There’s only so much working we can all do. If you over-work, you’ll eventually burnout. Being busy and productive is great, but to keep up the pace you need to look after yourself.
Make sure you have a good work-life balance. Go home and switch off your work phone. Although work is important, there is more to life than your job. Remember to take time out to rest, enjoy your hobbies, exercise and eat right.
It’s okay to fail
No one is perfect. Everyone fails at something throughout life. Failure is an important part of recognising and appreciating success.
If something goes wrong at work, don’t stress. Put in into perspective and think, ‘will this matter in a few weeks or months’ time?’
Messing up does not equal the end. It’s an opportunity to realise where you went wrong and do better next time. It’s all a learning curve!
So, the next time you’re fretting about finding a new job or worrying about a project that didn’t go so well, remember our lessons. Put yourself first and do what makes you happy!
If you need a helping hand with your job search, get in touch with your local branch.
