Post-Corporate Women: What to do Next?

I meet women all the time who have reached a point in their lives where they know they need/want something more. In most cases, they’ve spent years in the corporate world, working for someone else and building their skills. With that behind them, and beginning to look ahead at their lives, they are looking for something more. Often, they’ve already been through the process of seeking a new job, only to discover that the corporate world isn’t welcoming them with open arms any more. They’re ‘old’, demand too high a salary, or won’t want to stay around. As sad as this is, it does appear to be reality for many women over the age of 50. Now, keep in mind, 50 is still young! When the average life expectancy of American women is 80.5 years, according to lifescience.com, these women still have many years ahead of them.  They bring experience, wisdom, maturity and a strong work ethic. Seems like these are qualities any organization would relish, but such does not seem to be the case.

So what are these bright, talented, vibrant women expected to do? That remains a question. Few wish to simply retire to sit in a rocking chair. They still have much to contribute to society, business, and the world. I’ve worked with many who choose an alternative. Some choices have included self-employment, volunteering, or part-time employment. In most cases, they finally fulfil that long desired dream they’ve carried throughout their lives. They have reached a point where it’s ok to step away from the corporate world and live their lives for themselves. All too many of us grew up with expectations of what we thought others thought we should be: a housewife and mother, a doctor, an administrative assistant or some other profession where we worked for someone else. This group of women are breaking all the molds and finally realizing they can live their dreams.
It’s not an easy road and there are few examples to follow. After all, the generation before us was widely filled with women who were full time housewives. Sure, there were woman who worked, but this was the exception rather than the norm, and often out of necessity. Rare was the woman who completed college and followed a profession other than secretary or teacher. So, here they are, reaching a point in life where they are no longer welcome in the corporate world, yet young enough to still have the desire and energy to make a difference. It’s no easy path.

Working with these women, coaching them to see the possibilities, rather than the limitations, is exhilarating! They positively light up to have someone listening to their dreams, telling them “Yes! You can do it!”  I’m working on a project to facilitate these transitions; to help women step away from the corporate world they’ve felt tied to, and step into a life that is fulfilling, rewarding, and accepting of all they have to offer. Are you one? Are you seeking answers to how to get there? I’m currently gathering information and would love to hear your story, your struggles. Contact me at andrea@colecoach.com and let’s talk. Be part of creating something that will help others, like you, live a life they’ve always dreamed of.