Never Say "Never"

If you would love to do a particular type of work, but have thought, "They would never hire me." or "I could never get that type of contract for work.", maybe you should reconsider. Granted, there are some things that you are not qualified to do and others that you would not likely be able to qualify to do, but there are many occupations that may fall within the realm of possibilities. One of the phrases I use frequently is, "It depends". If you are in your 30s and would like to become a doctor, your likelihood of succeeding depends on a number of factors, but that may still be possible. However, if you are in your 60s and want to be a doctor, and you have no bachelor's degree, it may be less likely to be achievable, but may not be entirely out of the question - depending on a number of other factors. I recently read a story about an individual who graduated from a college of medicine at the age of 61. Another story referred to a 66 year old who was recently hired as a consultant with a major firm. Other individuals have received their GED years after they left high school and have been admitted to college, even though they previously doubted any of that could happen. So, it depends - and part of that uncertainty has to do with how much desire you have in achieving your goal. Another factor has to do with how much work you are willing to undertake to achieve your goal.

Realistic opportunities to some career changes depend on a number of factors, but it is important that you not let your career dream dissipate without giving it due consideration. If you have not gathered actual information about your career dream, that is the place to begin. You would not want to make that decision without information, and base it only on what you 'think' is involved or required. Do some reading to see what the educational or training requirements are and other skills or experiences needed for the type of work or other activities you would love to do. Then, if you have not already done so, you should talk to some people who are doing the type of activities/work you dream of doing.

You can look at what is required for your dream work and compare that information to the skills and abilities you already possess, as well as your values and interests. Then you can decide if it is still what you want to pursue now, save until later, or postpone indefinitely. If you decide that now is the time, you should then develop an action plan to get you to your dream.


Mary Ann Davis is a Licensed Professional Counselor providing counseling and coaching for life's transitions; including carer change or job search, as well as loss of job, retirement planning, grief work, coping with an empty nest and other life planning issues. She is certified as a Master Career Counselor by the National Career Development Association; a Life/Work Counselor by the National Employment Counseling Association; and is a Distance Credentialed Counselor. Check out her web site at www.YourCareerPlan.com.

To contact Ms. Davis, please call (513) 665-4444 x3 and leave a personal and confidential message or send an email to YourCareerPlan@cinci.rr.com.