Q: I’m in that place on my education journey that feels almost done and just getting started. At 51, I’m 10-12 years away from retirement. I’m settled in my position, grounded in my experience, and mentoring new leaders. However, I am bored, and there’s no promotion path. When I do apply for promotion, I’m not the first choice because I lack site leadership experience.
So, do I sit and stay, take a few steps backward, or completely pivot? How do I make a plan that excites me and helps me hold on to my pension? Your advice is so appreciated.
Signed, am I too old to start over?
A: First, let me assure you, you are not too old to start over! At 51, you stand at a unique crossroads in your career, filled with potential and opportunity. Feeling accomplished and restless is understandable, especially when you’ve dedicated years to your current role. The good news is that this moment of uncertainty can be a catalyst for growth and reinvention.
Embrace your experience
You’ve spent years building a solid foundation in your field, and that experience is invaluable. Don’t underestimate the skills you’ve honed as a mentor and leader. These qualities can be leveraged in various ways, whether in your current organization or elsewhere. Reflect on what you enjoy most about your role and consider how those elements can be integrated into a new path. In my latest book, Making an Impact Outside the Classroom, I offer different activities to help you explore what you love most and what kinds of new challenges you may be ready for.
An easy way to start is to create a pros/cons list for your current work and then add a third column for your passions. What are they in this part of your life, and how can you live in them more? Being bored was one of the first indicators that it was time for a change because I also struggle when I’m no longer challenged.
Explore new opportunities
Instead of viewing your lack of site leadership experience as a barrier, see it as an opportunity to broaden your horizons. Look for projects or initiatives within your organization that allow you to gain that experience. Volunteer for cross-functional teams, or propose new initiatives that align with your interests. This showcases your willingness to grow and demonstrates your commitment to the organization if you decide to stay there. This was the first step I took, so when I returned to school for my education leadership license, I could take advantage of an alternative route in leadership since my teacher leadership roles and leadership roles with national education organizations provided ample evidence that I was prepared for what came next.
If your current workplace doesn’t provide the opportunities you seek, it might be time to explore other organizations. Research companies that value diverse experiences and have a reputation for promoting from within. Networking can be a powerful tool here; reach out to former colleagues or industry contacts who can provide insights into potential opportunities. LinkedIn is a great place to do this. You can search for folks with the titles and job descriptions you seek and ask them if they wouldn’t mind getting on a call to share their experience. You can also check out this playlist on my YouTube channel that highlights educators’ different career paths when they left a traditional role.
Consider further education or training
If you feel that additional qualifications could enhance your prospects, consider pursuing relevant certifications or courses. This doesn’t mean you need to embark on a lengthy degree program; even short courses in leadership, project management, or industry-specific skills can make a significant difference. Education can reignite your passion, provide fresh perspectives, and introduce you to other people in the same situation. Having a network of folks with similar goals makes transition times easier.
Create a strategic plan
To navigate this transition, develop a strategic plan that excites you. Start by identifying your passions and interests. What aspects of your current role do you love? What new skills do you want to acquire? Write down your goals, both short-term and long-term. Break them into actionable steps that you can take over the next few months.
For example, if you want to gain site leadership experience, set a goal to shadow a site leader or participate in relevant training within the next six months. If you’re considering a pivot, research potential career paths that align with your interests and skills. Set a timeline for when you’d like to make this transition, keeping in mind your desire to maintain your pension.
Stay engaged and curious
Boredom often stems from a need for more challenge. To combat this, stay engaged in your current role by seeking out new projects or responsibilities. Perhaps there are opportunities to mentor others more formally or lead workshops. Being proactive can rejuvenate your enthusiasm and demonstrate your commitment to growth, making you a more appealing candidate for promotions. Another option is to write a job description for your ideal position and engage in a dialogue with leadership to see if they have space for that role. If they don’t, you will still have more clarity about your desire.
Network and seek guidance
As mentioned earlier, don’t hesitate to seek advice and support from others. Networking with peers, attending industry events, or joining professional organizations can provide a wealth of resources and connections. Engaging with others who have made similar transitions can offer insights and encouragement.
Embrace the journey
Lastly, remember that career paths are rarely linear. It’s normal to feel uncertain, especially when contemplating a change. Embrace this journey as an opportunity for personal and professional growth. Your experience is an asset, and with the right mindset and strategy, you can create a fulfilling career that excites you.
Remember, you are not too old to start over. With your wealth of experience and a proactive approach, you can find a path that not only holds onto your pension but also revitalizes your passion for your work. Take the first step today, and be mindful that the best is still to come.
Have a question that you’d like Career Confidential to answer? Email mssackstein@gmail.com. All names and schools will remain confidential. No identifying information will be included in the published questions and answers.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Starr Sackstein
Starr Sackstein is the Massachusetts state coordinator for PDK’s Educators Rising program, COO of Mastery Portfolio, an education consultant, instructional coach, and author. She was a high school English and journalism teacher and school district curriculum leader. She is the author of more than 15 educational books, including Hacking Assessment (Times 10, 2015), Making an Impact Outside of the Classroom (Routledge, 2024), and Actionable Assessment (Routledge, 2026).
Visit their website at: https://www.mssackstein.com/
