From Pete: “I was in plumbing and excavation for over 20 years. An auto accident has made me ‘fragile’ and as a manager in today’s world you have to be in the field working with the troops. I can no longer use my body as my source of income. I’m afraid I may no longer be able to ‘learn’. Any ideas or resources?”
This is a great question, especially when you consider the fact that the same dilemma can be caused by any number of personal (or societal) changes – and Pete most certainly isn’t the only one in this particular boat these days.
So… what do you think Pete be be doing in his efforts to transfer to a less physically challenging occupation?
chris bartlett says
I want Pete to know that our gifts and talents do NOT come with an expiration date, therefore learning needs to be a constant in our lives… Put one foot in front of the other and start making those inch by inch changes that create movement and bring about momentum. This problem is really an opportunity in disguise. Look into your heart to find those interests that have probably been with you all these years, yet remain untapped. Pete, you can do it, just like everyone else! My best to you!
Bruce says
Great advice, Chris…
DJBill says
Wow, I feel you Pete,I to am in the same boat,and boy if something isn’t done fast,this boat is going to sink. I am finding very hard these day with The Job Search,The times have changed (BIG TIME) with the use of The Internet and Jobs,There is no more Sit Downs with The Employer,You fill out an Application On-Line,Then the App is reviewed by Computer Program (Most of the time) and if your Resume does not how some kind of College Degree or Licence then you App. is put to the set and no one even looks at it,Not to mention Call you for A Sit Down,to get to know the person.All I can say is,”Times have changed”! Good Luck Pete, and if one should figure this out,please let us know A.S.A.P.
Lisa says
Hi Pete.
Well, I, too, had to leave an industry due to my “age” – not that I couldn’t keep up, I just didn’t want to anymore and yes, it did take a toll on my body. The good news for me was I had experience in other things as well, such as sales, recruiting and owning my businesses at one point in time ot another. I brought ALL of my life experience to bear (not just recent work experience) and brainstormed and actually got a job back with a previous employer recruiting again. And as a recruiter, I can tell that you are not alone. There are many many people on the market. One big piece of advice I would give you is look into your life and find what has made you happy and engaged you and see if you can “intern” or even mentor someone as a way to get your foot in the door or to gain experience. Be entreprenuerial and creative as well as pounding the pavement. Maybe you can some other folks who are in the same predicament can put your heads together (start a weekly group meeting) and come up with ideas that can not only bring some income, but that gives you something to do and gets the jiuces flowing again! Many big ideas and successes have come from a few people comming together to create change! Read Tipping Point…it may inspire you!