Ever wished you could reinvent your life or your career? Apparently this desire is quite common. Social psychologist Richard Luker says that “adults are saying not only do I see a more vigorous life, I’m up for it, I’m game, I want to do more. Our research is bearing that out in spades”. Jane Pauley in her book Your Life Calling: Reimagining the Rest of Your Life, states “Today men and women in their forties can reasonably be thinking about beginning a new career or something new that’s not a career. We are the first generation to get a heads-up that not only is there more to come, but may even the best of all.”
Put up your periscope– Knowing where to begin to reinvent your career is challenging to say the least. For her book, Pauley interviewed Tripp Hanson who reinvented his career from being a Broadway performer to becoming an acupuncturist. Hanson was 42 when he began to question what his next act would be. He says “Forty did not feel like thirty at the end of the show. More ice, more heat, more Advil”. Hanson sought out a therapist who advised him to “Put up your periscope. Just look around, over the fence, over the hedge, check it out. Things are going to grab your attention; pay attention when they do. When something intrigues you, pay attention. Why does that matter so much to you? Go a little further. Take another step. Listen to that small, quiet voice.“
Tripp Hanson put up his periscope. He found that he was intrigued with acupuncture when he took his dog Spanky, to an acupuncturist to treat knee problems. When Spanky could walk down stairs within 2 visits, Hanson decided to also try acupuncture for his own injuries. He too experienced immediate results. He found that acupuncture not only engaged him but was also a re-awakening of a childhood dream of becoming a doctor.
The first step- Reinventing your career is often a long process, but the first step can be quite straight forward. It can be as simple as noticing what captures your interest. If you enjoy journaling, you can begin by writing about the things you would enjoy learning more about. If journaling isn’t your thing, consider taking photos of scenes that draw you in. Yet another idea is to create a Pinterest board of things you like best. It doesn’t matter what method you use, the important thing is that you notice and take note of what intrigues you.
If you are thinking there is something more for you to do, you are on the right track. Jane Pauley concludes her book by saying “Inspiration is everywhere, but you have to be looking.” I would also add ‘you also need to be listening to hear that small quiet voice of inner wisdom.’
