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What made you believe it wasn’t too late to start over?

For those who have hit 'reset' on life in their late 20s or beyond (whether by tackling mental health, going back to school, or changing careers) what was the moment or mindset shift that made you believe it wasn’t too late to start over?

I'm a 27 year old student at a community college and I’d love to hear how others found strength, purpose, or clarity in their own second chapters.

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Brittany’s Answer

I've hit 'reset' twice! Once in my late twenties and once in my mid thirties. In both cases it meant changing careers, in the second case it also required further education.

Both times, that 'aha' moment was when I realized that while I had previously enjoyed what I had been doing, I no longer did. I realized that those roles were perfect for me at certain times, but I had outgrown them. I didn't see any shifts or promotions within the careers that would have reinvigorated my enthusiasm, so I knew it was time to consider a change.

The mindset shift around whether it was too late was simple for me. I looked ahead until a "retirement" age in my mind. Could I see myself still in my current role and be fulfilled, happy, and challenged? That meant considering several decades down the road. Those decades were a lot longer than the amount of time I had put into my previous roles at that point, so I wouldn't be losing much of anything by tackling a new challenge.

I did have to start over at entry level both times, but previous job and life experience makes it a lot easier to move up more quickly. I'm now in a role I absolutely love, doing fulfilling work, and looking ahead into the future doesn't spark dread anymore. I am 100% glad I made the changes both times, and while it was hard work it was definitely worth it.

Brittany recommends the following next steps:

Try being open about your fresh start. You will be shocked how many people have made big changes too! It will be an encouragement.
Turn your second chapter into a win on resumes and in interviews. What you are doing takes courage, initiative, hard work, dedication, etc. All qualities your perspective employer is looking for
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Sean’s Answer

It's never too late to begin again...
Thank you comment icon Hi Sean! I agree! Can you give Taylor some more insight into starting again? Sharyn Grose, Admin
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Kate’s Answer

What made me believe it wasnt too late was realizing that life doesnt follow one timeline - and growth doesn't have an expiration date. For many, the shift comes when they stop comparing themselves to others and starting asking "what kind of life do I actually want?" At 27, you are not behind. You are just getting clearer on who you are and what matters. Starting over can be beginning of something way more algned with your purpose.
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