How to Find Fulfilling Work Later in Life

Downsizing, buy-outs, corporate restructuring, early retirement incentives--there are numerous reasons why employees may be winding down their first careers as they approach traditional retirement age. But to many older Americans, retirement is simply not an option. Whether they choose to continue working for financial reasons, insurance benefits, or just to maintain their sanity, many mature employees choose to rev their careers into second gear instead of down-shifting into early retirement.

Finding Opportunities for Personal Fulfillment

A common (albeit cynical) axiom on marriage is to wed first for love and later for money. However, job fulfillment works in direct opposition. Since many employees enter the workplace saddled with college loans and the expenses of becoming independent, they sensibly favor salary over passion for their jobs. But as time marches on, job satisfaction begins to take on a greater appeal. The opportunity to engage in work you truly enjoy is a luxury generally available only to the romantically idealistic and/or the financially secure.

Rewarding Careers Await Experienced Applicants

Many Americans aged 50-plus have learned valuable skills through hard work and on-the-job training. Although they have experience in spades, they may lack formal educational credentials, or might need specialized education to make the career change that they desire. Online degree programs offer these employees the chance to earn the degrees they need, without having to share a classroom with their kids or grandkids.

Money Magazine designated the following careers among the top five for older employees. Click on the 'recommended degree' of your choice for further info.

With a degree in hand, your second career may be rolling in no time.

Sources:

• CNN Money.com Best Second Careers
• Bureau of Labor Statistics