Six Options When Midlife Calls for a Change

If you're in the middle of your career and feeling restless, it’s a sign that your life is nudging you toward something more meaningful. This kind of nudge doesn’t come every day, and ignoring it or choosing an “easy” solution might mean missing the chance for real growth. Let’s look at six popular routes for change—some lead to meaningful shifts, while others can shuffle the status quo.

Here are your options when midlife calls for a change, with some insights from the Midlife Maverick perspective. (Spoiler: Only a couple truly break the cycle!)

1. Go Small and Hope No One Sees You

Taking small steps to stay under the radar might feel safe, but it can lead to feeling invisible and undervalued. Playing small rarely leads to a fulfilling life change; instead, it often traps you further in the cycle of restlessness and regret. A true Midlife Maverick embraces the courage to be seen.

2. Throw in the Towel Entirely

The idea of quitting altogether might sound freeing, but it comes with financial challenges and the daunting task of rebuilding from scratch. This path can bring clarity, but it often leads to more uncertainty without a well-thought-out plan. If your wallet (and nerves) can handle it, go for it—just be prepared for a new set of hurdles.

3. Upskill and Gain New Career Value

Gaining new skills can make you feel revitalized in your career, bringing a sense of fresh value to the work you do. However, if the role itself is unfulfilling, the boost may be short-lived. For a Midlife Maverick, upskilling is a powerful step, but only when it aligns with a deeper purpose or a planned next step.

4. Switch Jobs: New Place, Same Rut

A change in scenery can sometimes bring a temporary lift, but without a fundamental shift in what you do, this can be just swapping one out for another. For many, this is simply reshuffling dissatisfaction. Midlife Mavericks don’t just change jobs—they look for roles or ventures that resonate with their evolving purpose.

5. Find Something Outside of Work That Truly Excites You

Finding a passion or hobby outside of work can bring new energy and fulfillment. While this won’t always solve career dissatisfaction, it’s an important element of a well-rounded life. Mavericks in midlife see this as a way to balance their lives and pursue interests beyond the paycheck.

6. Build a Side Venture That Aligns with Your Passions and Talents

Creating a side venture is a game-changer. It allows you to align your work with your passions, talents, and life goals. Unlike the other options, this path provides both freedom and fulfillment, giving you a new sense of control over your life’s direction. This is the option that truly enables you to leave the grind and explore your potential.

The Midlife Maverick’s Take

So, which of these options gets you unstuck? The answer isn’t the same for everyone, but for those who crave real change, Option 6 stands out. Building a side venture that taps into your talents and passions can lead to a whole new chapter—a “Next Chapter” that reflects who you truly are.

I’ll be diving into all these options and more at my upcoming session, "How to Stop Being a Corporate Captive."

Whether you’re ready for a side venture or simply exploring options, this is your chance to learn, connect, and find the path that feels like you.

Don’t miss the opportunity to choose change intentionally—because midlife is just the beginning of the rest of your life.

Register now: https://www.dhirubhai.net/events/howtostopbeingacorporatecaptive7260909434271318017/theater/