Taking the Later Daters Approach to Your Career

Midlife can be an intimidating crossroads for your career. Whether you’re feeling stagnant, facing an industry shake-up, or contemplating a complete pivot, it’s easy to get stuck in a loop of "What now?" But here’s where we can take a page from Netflix’s docuseries, The Later Daters.

Produced by none other than Michelle Obama, the premise of The Later Daters is simple: singles over 50 gather to rekindle their romantic lives. Watching these individuals step out of their comfort zones—swiping right, speed dating, and rediscovering what makes their hearts flutter—is a masterclass in embracing vulnerability.

And whilst midlife often comes with a laundry list of responsibilities and scars—divorces, grown kids, career transitions, these daters remind us that it’s never too late to take risks, whether it’s opening your heart to the possibility of love or reinvigorating our professional lives.

In my work with midcareer women, we place a lot of emphasis on changing mindsets and this program is all about mindset! So here’s how embracing a Later Daters mindset can help you fall back in love with your career—or even find a new one entirely.

1. Put Yourself Back Out There

In the world of dating, nothing happens if you don’t show up. The same is true for your career. Whether you’re looking for a promotion, a new role, or exploring an entirely different industry, visibility matters.

This could mean updating your LinkedIn profile, reaching out to your network, or attending events that align with your professional interests. Sure, it might feel a little awkward at first—just like that first date after a long hiatus. But the potential rewards far outweigh the initial jitters.

2. Dare to Redefine Yourself

One of the joys of The Later Daters is seeing people unapologetically shed old labels. Several daters took to the dance floor, signing up for salsa lessons to not only learn a new skill but also to step outside their comfort zone. Others explored their creativity, diving into art classes, learning to paint or create in ways they hadn’t before.

Your career can be just as fluid. Midlife is the perfect time to pivot, whether that’s starting a business, transitioning into a passion project, or finally pursuing that dream job you always thought was out of reach. Remember: it’s not too late to reinvent yourself. It’s actually the perfect time.

3. Learn to Laugh at the Awkward Moments

Just as first dates come with their fair share of fumbles, so does any career transition. Whether you bomb a job interview or stumble through a new skill, it’s all part of the process.

Instead of letting these moments derail you, take a Later Daters approach: laugh it off and keep going. Every misstep is a learning opportunity and if nothing else a great story for later.

4. Focus on Connection

The magic of The Later Daters isn’t just in the romance; it’s in the relationships they build with each other. Community matters, whether it’s sharing a laugh, offering advice, or cheering each other on.

In your career, building a network of supportive peers and mentors can make all the difference. Seek out people who inspire you, challenge you, and celebrate your wins. And don’t forget to return the favor - your midlife wisdom could be exactly what someone else needs.

5. Embrace Change - Messiness and All

If there’s one thing the daters on the show teach us, it’s that change isn’t always tidy, but it’s worth it. Your career path might not follow a straight line anymore (did it ever?), but that’s part of the adventure.

Take the leap, even if the outcome isn’t crystal clear. Start with small steps: take a course, volunteer for a new project, or start researching industries that excite you. The act of moving forward is often more important than knowing exactly where you’re going.

6. Celebrate Your Experience

What makes the Later Daters cast so magnetic is their confidence. They know who they are and what they bring to the table—and they’re not afraid to own it.

As a midlife professional, you have a wealth of experience and wisdom that’s uniquely yours. Instead of downplaying it, lean into it. Your career story is a treasure trove of skills, lessons, and triumphs that no one else can replicate.

Final Thoughts: Fall in Love with Your Career Again

The Later Daters is more than just a dating show; it’s a celebration of second chances, bold choices, and living life to the fullest. By adopting this mindset, you can transform your career into something that excites and fulfills you, no matter where you are on your journey.

So put yourself out there, embrace the mess, and don’t be afraid to take risks. Who knows? You might just find your career soulmate or, at the very least, rediscover the spark that keeps you motivated.

Because, like in dating, the best part of the journey isn’t just the destination, it’s the stories you create along the way.

Are you a This Woman Can (and did)! newsletter subscriber, I share life and career advice specifically for the mature Black woman to your inbox each Monday morning - you can subscribe to my email list to stay in touch.

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