This past January I left my job of 13 years to become a full time content creator. I was 53 and divorced, but in a new relationship. My children were grown, one in college, one a college grad in the workforce. I’d been working online for 5 years in addition to my full time job, but like almost every else my age I was torn between family responsibilities and my work schedule.
My father had received a dementia diagnosis my mother had died several years earlier. I needed a flexible schedule to handle what life was now handing me. I was suffering from migraines and as my stress level was rising and my body was responding, I knew it was time to make some changes. Here’s what I did and how that’s going:
I gave a one month notice at work I wanted to leave on good terms, I stayed through their busiest season. With a plan to leave in January I’d be making a fresh start as the new year began. As one job was winding down I was putting more effort toward my online business to ensure the income would at least match the two jobs combined. I was also temporarily going without insurance and other benefits so I had to consider everything.
I had my annual physical and had all the tests someone my advanced age requires, colguard, mammogram etc. With a clean bill of health I was heading into to my uninsured future. It was a turbulent time mentally, was I making a mistake? Could this decision be easily reversed if necessary? What was I going to tell everyone I was doing for work?
Now what? How is it going almost 8 months later? I will say I have not looked back, not even once, I have been present in my families lives when needed. Spent precious time with loved ones, I would have found previously myself too busy for in the past. I am earning a good living doing what I enjoy. I am taking my health and happiness seriously, I am more grounded and relaxed. I’m also happy to report the migraines have disappeared.
This job isn’t for everyone and I realize every situation is different. However if you, like me are in your 50s or beyond, look at the next 10, 20 or 30 yrs, what lies ahead? Where do you see yourself and is it what you want? Look at your options and learn the lessons of those around us, those who have gone before us, did they live life on their terms, were they able to enjoy their retirement with health and physical ability to do the things they had always wanted? What stands in your way? What prevents you from finishing your journey with peace, happiness and a fulfilled life? Surrounded by the people and things you enjoy most.
If you want to learn more about how things are going, I invite you to explore my private community. A little corner of the internet to discuss what we are experiencing : Here❤️