Embracing Career Transitions

While the trend has been particularly noticeable among millennials, Gen Xers have also been increasingly embracing the opportunity to pivot their careers and chase their dreams. These workers are becoming part of a new trend and embracing ‘encore careers’ in the second half of their lives. 

People live longer, healthier lives and want to impart their skills and knowledge learned from their primary career rather than giving up work altogether. Many people want flexibility, a sense of connection and purpose from not-for-profit, community and charitable organisations.

Mid-Life Realisations and the Pursuit of Fulfillment

Caitlin Duffy, Research Director in Gartner’s HR practice, said, “The intent to leave or stay in a job is only one of the things people are questioning as part of the larger human story we are living. You could call it the ‘Great Reflection’. It’s critical to deliver value and purpose”. The pandemic has allowed people to have a sense of self-awareness and worth, and they don’t want to go back to life before COVID-19.

Andrew Oswald, a professor of economics and behavioural science at the University of Warwick, observes that people in their 40s and 50s are prone to experiencing dissatisfaction and distress about their lives. This "mid-life crisis" is a widely recognised psychological phenomenon that has fascinated researchers and experts.

The pandemic era catalysed many to reflect on their lives. The uncertainty and upheaval caused by the global crisis compelled many individuals to rethink their priorities and seek greater contentment. This newfound perspective made them more open to leaving secure, unrewarding careers to explore uncharted territories.

The next two examples are not drawn from the Covid pandemic era, but are worthy examples of people embarking on a major career change, taking risks and backing themselves to a successful outcome.

Kristy Chong: from PR to feminine hygiene and apparel

Kristy Chong was the founder of Modibodi, an Australian brand that offers innovative, sustainable, and leak-proof apparel, including underwear, swimwear, and activewear. With a career in Public Relations and Communications, Kristy wasn't initially involved in the fashion or sustainability sectors. However, she identified a significant gap in the market for women's underwear that was both comfortable and leak-proof.

The idea for Modibodi came to Kristy while she was training for a marathon. She realised that there was a need for an environmentally friendly and functional alternative to disposable feminine hygiene products.

Kristy Chong's transition from a career in Public Relations to founding a purpose-driven company reflects her entrepreneurial spirit, innovation, and commitment to social and environmental wellness.

Ronni Khan: from events management to being awarded an AO for social welfare

Initially working in the corporate sector, running a successful events management business, Ronni Kahn's turning point came when she became increasingly concerned about the amount of food waste generated by the events she was managing. 

In 2004, she founded OzHarvest, a nonprofit organisation that rescues surplus food from various outlets like supermarkets, restaurants, and hotels, then delivers it to charities that support people in need.

Since its inception, OzHarvest has expanded nationwide and delivered millions of meals to those in need. In 2020 Ronni was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia.

Ronni Kahn's transition from a corporate event planner to a social entrepreneur reflects a profound commitment to making a positive impact on society. Her dedication to reducing food waste and improving the lives of those in need has made her one of Australia's most respected and influential social entrepreneurs. Her story is a compelling example of how one individual's passion and determination can lead to transformative social change.

The Challenges of Career Changes

Career changes, while exciting and rewarding, are challenging. 

Ronni's vision to reduce food waste and feed the hungry led her to found OzHarvest, which required her to navigate legal challenges and operational obstacles. Through perseverance, and battling many legislative barriers, she built OzHarvest into Australia's leading food rescue organisation, affecting millions of lives and inspiring others to take action on social and environmental issues.

Kristy spent two years in product development, collaborating with experts to create a patented technology for sustainable, leak-proof apparel, a path fraught with challenges and setbacks.

Both women's journeys underscore the power of resilience and determination in achieving success. Ronni's unwavering commitment to social justice and environmental sustainability, and Kristy's relentless pursuit of innovation and women's well-being, have led to significant contributions in their respective fields. Their stories stand as compelling examples of how personal drive, coupled with a clear vision and purpose, can overcome obstacles and create impactful change.

Societal Attitudes Towards Career Transitions

Historically, career changes in mid-life have been viewed with scepticism or seen as a sign of instability. However, societal attitudes are shifting as the Great Reshuffle continues redefining the workforce. 

Individuals like Kristy and Ronni broke barriers and proved that it is never too late to pursue one's passions. This change in perception encourages others to explore alternative paths, regardless of age, and embrace career transitions as a means of self-discovery and personal growth.

The Great Reshuffle has become a defining feature of the modern workforce, with professionals from all generations seeking satisfaction and purpose in their careers. Gen Xers, in particular, have been increasingly drawn to career changes during mid-life, driven by a desire to reassess their lives and seek greater happiness. 

Is a career transition for me?

Whilst the above stories are inspiring, you don’t have to have a complete industry change, or even be an entrepreneur, to find meaning and purpose in your next career move.  With so many purpose driven companies springing up across renewable energy, sustainability, plant based production and of course the ever present and growing not for profit industry, you can transition your existing professional experience into one of these sectors.  Sometimes it may come with a small salary drop, particularly going from a profit to not for profit organisation, or to an early stage start up.  These drops are often short lived, and everyone’s personal circumstances will be assessed differently.  The bottom line is, you don’t need to work your heart out for a company with no heart of their own, there are many organisations looking for passionate professionals to help bring goodness into the world.