Here's how you can maximize the advantages of pursuing a second career during late career.

Are you escaping from something or to something? It's often the difference between focusing on what you don't want versus what you do want. If you are moving toward something rather than away from something, it's more likely to be a good fit. Ideas like opening a gallery, or moving to Tuscany, or starting your own restaurant have a romantic appeal, but the reality is often different than the fantasy. A coach can help you make sure you are moving toward something that is the right fit for you.

In Singapore, lifelong learning is something that the government embraces and supports. Great funds are poured in for those who are interested to upskill and learn new skills. It doesn't always have to be technical skills relevant to one's job, it can also be skills like photography or baking to meet one's hobbies and interest. Nowadays, with more online learning available, such as LinkedIn Learning, there is little excuse for not learning a new skill. If you can spend 2 hours or more watching Netflix, you can easily squeeze in 15-30 mins of LinkedIn Learning on some days!

Networking with those already in the field will give you an insider's view of what it takes to do the job that you are dreaming of doing! They may be a great resource - to let you know of industry and professional events that may be useful to you as you want to get to know more mentors and employers in the new industry. While we network with new people, don't forget about your existing network of people, they may have friends and contacts in those field that you are looking to embark into as well. This is where LinkedIn connections can show you, your friend's contact, that your friend can connect you with!

Embracing change can be incredibly empowering. Starting a new career at 52 has been an empowering journey. Here are three advantages I’ve discovered: • Experience: With years of diverse experiences, I bring a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective to my new field. • Clarity: At this stage in life, I have a clearer sense of my passions and strengths, allowing me to pursue a career that truly aligns with my values. • Resilience: Having navigated various challenges over the years, I’ve developed a strong resilience and adaptability, which are invaluable in embracing new opportunities.

Our primitive brains will try to run away from big transitions. So it's important to be aware of it and have a strategy to use your powerful brain for you rather than against you. Here are a couple of ways that can really help: Manage your expectations. Notice whether you are expecting too much from yourself, too soon, or if you’re comparing yourself to others. It’s okay to take things slowly. The important thing is to pace yourself. Reflect on your resilience. Consider the big changes you’ve moved through in your life. Even if change hasn’t felt positive to begin with, chances are that moving out of your comfort zone has been where you’ve learned and grown the most. You’ve got through it before, you'll be okay this time too.

Research shows that staying active and engaged as we age is fundamental, especially as we live longer lives. Pursuing a second career later in life can fulfil a lifetime ambition. However, it’s wise to ensure we don’t get lost in this new pursuit and lose touch with what is most important. To avoid this, monitor your time and commit to switching off at set times. Consider working only three days a week or never on weekends. Developing self-awareness helps keep us in check. When lost in a new project, self-awareness can bring us back to the important question: What is most important to me, and am I being true to it?

It is essential to have a clear purpose, especially when considering a significant career change later in life. An internal drive and a strong sense of purpose can provide the motivation, resilience, and hope necessary to persevere and achieve breakthroughs.

Promote Your Unique Value Proposition Your unique background can differentiate you in the job market, so craft a compelling narrative that highlights your diverse experience and how it benefits potential employers or clients. Use your cover letter, resume, and interviews to communicate this effectively. And of course stay positive and persistent Why it matters: Career transitions can be challenging, and maintaining a positive outlook is crucial. though set realistic expectations and be patient with yourself. Celebrate small victories and stay persistent in your efforts. By leveraging your existing skills, expanding your network, pursuing relevant education, embracing a growth mindset, you can maximize the advantages of pursuing a new career

I wish I had done an Informational Interview with one of the Data Analyst/Scientists at an MNC before I embarked on a year-long journey into Data Analytics study. If I had known the changing demands for the field, and clarifying my personal values and interest earlier, I may have stop myself from going headslong into a program that turns out to be a mis-fit for me. Well, it's a learning journey for me, to talk to people earlier next time! At least you can learn from my mis-steps!

One thing I found that it's not just about finding a new job, it's about leveraging the transferable skills buffet we've built over the years. Think clear communication, battle-tested problem-solving, and a work ethic that's legendary! These are universally valuable and give you a head start in any new field. But it's not just the skills - life experience is your secret weapon. The wisdom from the trenches you've gained from navigating challenges and learning from both successes and setbacks gives you a unique perspective. This makes you a valuable asset, allowing you to approach problems creatively and deliver insightful solutions.