Positive news for mid-life career changers.

Let’s face it – mid-life career changes can be daunting. Hell, I know a few people that might fight you over using a the wrong milk in their latte order, much less try to encourage a major life change that impacts their money! For some of us, our jobs might even be part of our identity. For others, it might be the anxiety around the unknown. It’s interesting that most of us spend more time working than doing anything else in our lives, but a recent study shows that around 60% of U.S. workers are unhappy with key aspects of their jobs.

This seems like a sure road to discontent, yet, many of us choose to stay for any host of reasons.  In fact, people are less likely to change jobs as they age. According to a 2025 report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics on career change, the average number of career changes between 25 and 34 is 4.5. The average drops  to 2.9 years between the ages of 35 and 44,  drops again to 2.2 for ages 45 to 54, and again to 1.3 from ages 55 to 58.

However, a 2015 oft cited study from the American Institute of Economic Research found that 82% of people making a career change were successful in doing so! Findings of note:

• 50% reported increased their income
• 65% reported decreased stress levels
• 72% reported that they felt emotionally “new”

There doesn’t mean there were no challenges along the way, namely short-term pay cuts and the frustrations that come with learning curves. One important insight I found was that positions with transferrable skills may make the transition easier and more effective. Also, the largest demographics in this study are white men reporting income over $75,000, however, there is utility nonetheless. I’m encouraged by the roles that machine learning and free resources like Lowe’s Track to the Trades” courses being offered for free to their employees and other free skill-building resources.

All things considered, it seems to be well worth considering a change for those of us on the fence. I know taking risks can be a luxury that some of us may not have, but I hope to build a community of those that can help others along the way.