AARP® Crash Course in Finding the Work You Love

Book excerpt: The authoritative resource for finding new work and new purpose after fifty. Whether they’re old enough to have earned their AARP card or not, a new generation of American workers is no longer counting the days until retirement. Instead, they’re seeking greater fulfillment in their personal lives by tackling new—and often much more socially significant—work. Switching careers is a challenge at any age, yet boomers may have more to overcome than their younger counterparts: They must beef up their education or seek out retraining; cope with seismic lifestyle shifts such as less income and a new circle of friends; and reconcile themselves to the fact that even the most rewarding position is no panacea for life’s problems. After decades writing about career issues for publications as diverse as the Chicago Tribune, Family Circle, Workplace Management, and Wired, Sam Greengard brings a wealth of knowledge to this timely topic. He shows how to sort out your feelings about your existing career; successfully transition to a new one; and work toward a greater sense of balance in your daily life. Profiles of those who’ve attained their own goals are included, along with tips, quizzes, worksheets, how-to sidebars, and other practical resources.