midlife career change

I didn’t start my career as a film/commercial producer until I was 47, and it was one of the best decisions I ever made. However, I’m not that unique. According to The Balanced Careers, Americans change their jobs 10 to 15 times throughout their careers. In fact, I always had creative jobs that utilized my strength of storytelling and writing; however, I never went for it. When my children were younger, I took on odd copywriting jobs, then when they were in high school, my copywriting work led to a position in corporate communications. But… everything changed when I was an empty nester. Suddenly, I had more flexibility and time to think about what brings me joy. The answer… I love to create! 

I began KR Squared Productions with Kate, my daughter and co-founder of Sisi Dira. Our first project fell into our laps because Kate and I helped one of her friends on a project for Expedia. Honestly, we had no real idea what we were doing, but we charged head first into the creative, and today, I’m still proud of our first  little commercial. Then, Kate’s friend suggested that we pitch more commercials. She heard that there was an opportunity for Secret Deodorant, and we went for it. Lo and behold, we got it!

But...I want to make one thing clear, it was not all sunshine and flowers. There were days that were incredibly difficult and times where I thought about throwing in the towel. But I didn’t, and in the process, I learned a few invaluable tools. 

1. Don’t Be a Lone Soul
   Having Kate as a partner was crucial because I had to answer to someone else beside myself. Also… if you are going into a new field and working for someone else, it’s great to have a cheerleader on those tough “what am I doing” days.

2. See the Experience as an Adventure
   Mindset is so important. You have to think of the experience as a new journey. And as all journeys go, there are twists, turns, and forks in the road. Be prepared right from the start to be flexible because as your new career grows, unforeseen opportunities and disappointments may arise that you have to look square in the eye.

3. Get Comfortable with the Uncomfortable
   Changing jobs or going back into the workforce is a daunting endeavor. There will be people who know a lot more than you do, and you’re going to make mistakes. Lean into the vulnerable and learn. That is where you will learn to thrive.