Jorge Said:

Think it's too late in life for a career change? I can't handle all the manual labor anymore.?

We Answered:

Never David, I've seen older people than yourself change their careers. Go 4 it man!!

Timothy

:o)

Ida Said:

Have you made a large career change later in life? (25y/o+ please)?

We Answered:

I was an Army Reserve laboratory officer and also a hospital laboratory director and had spent my entire adult life working in health care. I was really burned out - long hours, high stress, no time for family, etc.

So, in my late 40's, I retired from the Reserve and quit my job and started a home-based embroidery business. I set my own hours and love the opportunity to do something that's fun. My pay has sunk, but I make enough to live.

Ironically, after I quit my lab management job, the lab manager of the local hospital called me and hired me (part time) to type policies/procedures, help prepare the lab for inspections, and to bring up new satellite labs. They pay me well and I get to do most of my work from home, with occasional visits to the lab to go over things. Having the lab management background gave me a unique set of skills which has been very beneficial to my current employer.

I also work as a technical consultant for a doctor's office that runs CBC testing. I set the lab up to meet federal regulatory standards and visit once a month to ensure the lab continues to operate properly.

I'm very happy I quit my job and tried something new. I was at a point in my life in which the thought of continuing in the same job was very depressing. Now, I no longer think about the day when I can retire. I'll work as long as I want and do what I want.

When I was in my late teens, I met a man who had made and lost a lot of money in his life. He told me that a person should change careers every ten years! I think he was really saying that you shouldn't be afraid or reticent about doing something different if what you're doing is no longer fulfilling or enjoyable. There is no law that says you have to do the same job your whole life.

Kimberly Said:

My 61-year old co-worker told me at age 43 it is too late in my life to make a career change. Is she right?

We Answered:

Have a game plan to follow. Have you been in film school or are you 'just thinking about it'. My son wanted to be a rock star (still does at 25). I told him to go for it but have Plan B. He went to college and graduated with a business degree and is now working on his 2nd degree to be a teacher. Still plays in several bands and now teaches guitar. Is he a rock star? No. but he's still doing something he loves. Blending best of both worlds. Can you do this with filmmaking? Absolutely!!!!