CNBC Poll: Will You Change Careers as You Age?
If you're young, statistics show, you've been disproportionately hit hard by the recession — and perhaps you are unemployed or underemployed. Many people have sympathy, but let's face it, you likely have years ahead to bounce back.
However, if you're over age 50 and unemployed, you have far less time and opportunity to regain your previous position. You may also face age discrimination.
That's why many over-40 workers — the Generation X and baby boomer generations — are plotting their options. One way to survive is to plan ahead.
Do you want to stay in the same career as you age? And is that plan feasible? If your work involves physical exertion or is part of a dying industry, you probably should rethink your plans.
Do you want to switch careers? If so, it may be time to do some detective work; what sort of second career will give you satisfaction as well as job longevity?
Another related path is to start your own business or consultancy. Ask yourself the now-cliched question: What's your passion? If you can make money at it, you may have another option.
Then again, maybe you just haven't gotten around to thinking about it.
So tell us: What are your career plans as you age?