Career Change at 40: 11 Steps to Make It Happen 

Changing careers at 40 isn’t just possible — it can be one of the most empowering and rewarding decisions you make. With the right mindset and a clear plan, you can pivot into more meaningful, flexible, or better-paying work. Start by identifying what you truly want, research new paths, and build a realistic action plan. Use your existing experience, update your skills, and tap into your network to open doors in a new field.

The idea of picking a job at 18 and sticking with it until retirement is as outdated as floppy disks and VHS tapes. You wouldn’t wear the same outfit you did 20 years ago — why should your career be any different? People evolve. Priorities shift. Maybe the job that once lit you up now leaves you drained. Or maybe it never lit you up at all — it was just a means to an end, and now you want more.

Still, the doubts creep in: “Is it too late?” “Do I have the energy to study again?” “Should I just ride it out until retirement?” And the classic: “Who actually loves their job anyway?” 

Here’s the good news: it’s not too late, it’s just different. Changing careers at 40 isn’t like doing it at 22, but that’s not a bad thing. You have life experience, emotional intelligence, self-confidence, and the kind of clarity younger you would envy. What you don’t need is that nagging voice telling you to “just be grateful” for a job that leaves you miserable.

Some people stay stuck because they think they’ve missed the boat or that they’re “overqualified” (read: not 25 and no longer willing to work for peanuts). Others dive in with no plan and burn out fast. This guide will help you find a middle ground: realistic, but hopeful. You’ll learn: 

• How to make a career change in your 40s. 
• Reasons why people change careers at 40. 
• The best jobs to start in your 40s. 

Need an updated resume for your new job search? Try the Rezi AI Resume Builder. And for more advice, check out these guides: 

• How to Write a Career Change Resume 
• I Hate My Job: What to Do, and When Is It Time to Quit? 
• 18 Alarming Signs You’re Getting Fired (and What to Do Next) 
• How to Quit a Job You Just Started: The Best Ways to Resign
• How to Write a Resignation Email: Do’s and Don’ts 

How to Make a Career Change in Your 40s 

In short: reflect on your interests, strengths, and what truly matters to you — whether it’s flexibility, creativity, or stability. Explore different paths, set realistic goals, and make a plan that aligns with your values. Upskill where needed, refresh your resume, and lean on your network. Be mindful of your finances, test the waters with part-time or volunteer work, and prepare for challenges with confidence. With the right mindset and steps, you can make the switch.

Thinking about switching careers? It might feel like a big leap, but you have experience on your side. With the right mindset and a solid plan, you’ve got this. 

1. Identify your interests and strengths 

Before you dive into a new job, take a moment to figure out what you actually want. What kind of work lights you up — even without a paycheck? What matters most right now: flexibility, creativity, or stability? Being honest about what you enjoy, what you’re good at, and what you’re no longer willing to compromise on makes it easier to choose the right path. 

What you can do: 

• Ask yourself: What tasks give me energy? What do I dread? 
• Reflect on what kind of feedback or compliments have stuck with you. 
• Decide if you want a full career change or just a new role in your current field. 
• Try journaling, career quizzes, or talking it through with someone who knows you well. 

2. Research new career paths 

Take time to explore your options. You don’t have to decide everything now — just get curious. The more you learn, the easier it is to make a confident move. 

What you can do: 

• Browse job listings to see what skills and experience employers are looking for. 
• Talk to people already working in roles you’re interested in — ask about their day-to-day and challenges. 
• Look up career change stories on YouTube, blogs, or podcasts to see how others did it. 
• Pay attention to job market trends. If a field is flooded with layoffs, maybe hit pause. 

Don’t jump into a course or quit your job just yet — make sure the new path is a good fit first. 

3. Set a SMART action plan 

Once you know what kind of work you want, map out your next steps. Use SMART goals — they help keep your plan focused and realistic. 

What you can do: 

• Specific. Define exactly what you want (e.g. “move into healthcare to do more meaningful work”). 
• Measurable. Track progress, like finishing one course a month, applying to two jobs a day, or contacting three people in your target field a week. 
• Achievable. Factor in your time, energy, and finances. Push yourself, but stay realistic. 
• Relevant. Make sure your goals align with your values — whether that’s more purpose, better pay, or a healthier work-life balance. 
• Time-bound. Set deadlines (like three to six months), and adjust as needed. 

Example SMART goal: 

“Within three months, I’ll complete a digital marketing certificate, update my resume, and apply to 40 entry-level marketing roles so I can move from admin into a more creative, flexible career.” 

4. Review your finances 

Career changes can sometimes take a pay cut. Before jumping ship, clarify where you stand financially so you’re not blindsided.

What you can do: 

• List your monthly expenses, savings, and debts. 
• Figure out how many months you could manage without a steady paycheck. 
• If you’ll need time off to train or job hunt, aim to save three to six months of living expenses.
• Try freelancing or part-time work in your new field before quitting your current job. 
• Talk to your family or partner if your income will change — their support can make a huge difference. 

5. Upskill for the role you want 

Look at job ads to find out what skills, tools, or credentials you’ll need to break into the field. Sometimes that means a degree — but often, short courses or certifications can do the trick.

What you can do: 

• For certifications, check out Coursera and edX — including Google Career Certificates for areas like project management, marketing, or IT. 
• Learn software or tools with platforms like Udemy, SkillShare, or YouTube for quick, practical lessons in design, Excel, video editing, or bookkeeping. 

6. Use your transferable skills 

You probably have more relevant experience than you think — even if you’re switching industries. Skills like managing people, solving problems, using spreadsheets, or staying calm under pressure all count. 

What you can do: 

• Jot down what you’ve done in past roles — your tasks, tools, and biggest achievements. 
• Spot the overlap with your new field. Strengths like leadership, communication, or using certain software can give you a head start. 

7. Update your resume and cover letter 

When changing careers, both your resume and cover letter need to reflect the direction you’re heading. Focus on what’s relevant to the role — trim out anything that no longer applies. 

What you can do: 

• Reframe your experience by highlighting transferable skills and relevant achievements on your resume and cover letter that reflect the job you want. 
• Customize your resume and cover letter for each application. Use keywords from the job description and speak directly to what the company is looking for. 

For more tips, check out How to Update Your Resume. 

8. Tap into your network 

Your network can be a game-changer in your job hunt — offering advice, connections, and job leads when you need them most. 

What you can do: 

• Let friends, family, and old coworkers know you’re making a career switch — and ask if they know anyone you should talk to. 
• Go to industry events or meetups in your new field. Just showing up and having conversations can open doors. 
• Post on LinkedIn about your career shift and say you’re open to opportunities. (If you don’t have a LinkedIn yet, read How to Make a Good LinkedIn Profile.) 
• Reach out to recruiters. They can guide you on what roles to target and help get your foot in the door. 

9. Get smart about your job search 

There’s more than one way to land a job, so try different methods and make the most of every resource available. 

What you can do: 

• Regularly check job sites like LinkedIn and Indeed. 
• If a company grabs your attention, go to their website and check the “Careers” page for open roles (some never get posted on job boards). 
• Use the Rezi AI Job Search to quickly find real openings pulled straight from company websites — just enter the job title and location. 

10. Try part-time or volunteer work 

Getting some real-world experience before fully switching careers can take the pressure off and help you see if the role’s right for you. You’ll learn the day-to-day reality of the role, start making industry connections, and gain relevant experience you can add to your resume. 

What you can do: 

• Volunteer or work part-time in your new field while keeping your current job. 
• Shadow someone for a day to see what the job actually looks like. 
• Look for short-term internships, even unpaid, to learn and meet people in the industry. 

Matt, a former engineer who left his job to start a nonprofit animal rescue, shared how he got started: 

“I spent a lot of time talking to people who’d started similar NGOs, visiting and volunteering to see how they were run. I also did an unpaid internship to shadow their key leaders. For the legal/financial side, I got a mentor from the Small Business Administration who helped with the business plan and paperwork.” 

11. Prepare for challenges

Changing careers in your 40s comes with extra layers — but that doesn’t mean it’s not doable. With a bit of planning and a flexible mindset, you can absolutely make it happen. 

What you can do: 

• Think ahead: what obstacles might come up, and how could you work around them? 
• Consider your current situation. Whether it’s a busy family life, financial commitments, or limited time, it’s all manageable with the right approach.
• Be honest about what you’re ready for — maybe it’s studying again, taking a pay cut, or trying something completely different. 
• Make sure the timing works for you and your family so you can give yourself the space to focus and grow. 

There may be a few hurdles, but you have experience, clarity, and motivation on your side. 

Why People Start New Careers at 40 

In short: by 40, many people seek a change in career to escape a toxic job, earn better pay, or find more fulfilling work. Sometimes it’s a layoff that forces the change. But whatever sparks it, the goal is the same: to find work that feels better, pays fairly, and fits who you are now. 

Hitting big milestones in life can make you rethink everything — and 40’s no exception. Maybe you want more purpose, better pay, or just a healthier work-life balance. Whatever the reason, it’s never too late to switch gears and go after something that feels right. 

Escaping a toxic work culture 

If your job feels like a daily mental obstacle course — where you’re constantly drained, second-guessing yourself, or stuck in a cycle of stress and Sunday scaries — it’s no surprise you’re eyeing the exit. At 40, you’ve probably had enough of the passive-aggressive emails, unrealistic expectations, or that manager who somehow makes everything your fault. 

It’s not weak to walk away — it’s smart. Starting fresh in a healthier environment can do wonders for your energy, confidence, and overall sanity. 

Steven was miserable in his job, and was glad he made the change: 

Seeking better pay or security 

A lot of us are over just scraping by. Bills keep piling up, rent keeps rising, maybe your kid just started high school, or you’re thinking ahead to college costs or retirement. When you know you have more to offer, it’s only natural to want a career that pays what you’re worth — and gives you some stability too. 

Brendan’s a great example: 

“I was working as a fitter when I had an accident and injured my foot. I moved into admin for 10 years, but I wanted to do more. My family was growing, and I wanted to get them to college and make more money for all of that. So I became a supervisor, then moved into training, and eventually became a health and safety officer.”

Now retired, Brendan looks back on that change as one of the best decisions he made. 

Wanting more purpose or fulfillment 

Turning 40 often shifts your focus from career advancement to finding meaningful work. Whether your job no longer aligns with who you are or never did, priorities change — especially if you’ve been raising kids or caring for family. At this stage, you may crave work that leaves a lasting impact, not just a paycheck. It’s about pursuing what truly matters to you, even if it means chasing that dream you once thought was out of reach.

Bridget, for example, started a master’s in her 60s, fulfilling a long-held dream and proving it’s never too late to chase what you’re passionate about: 

“When I left college, there was pressure to get work right away, and then I got busy with kids and my career. The MSc in Medical Technology Regulatory Affairs was something I had always wanted to do. It intimidated me, and regulations always seemed like something only really smart people could understand and talk about. But eventually, I realized I was capable too. It didn’t lead to a promotion since I was retiring soon, but it gave me a sense of redemption and pride.” 

Getting laid off 

Sometimes a career shift isn’t planned — it’s pushed on you. Layoffs can feel like a major setback, but for some, they become the push they needed. 

That’s what happened to this Reddit user, and it ended up being the best thing that could’ve happened: 

Need help navigating a layoff? Read How to Survive a Layoff for smart next steps. 

Best Career Change Jobs in Your 40s 

Here are some of the best career change jobs that offer solid pay, growth potential, better work-life balance, or more meaningful work — and sometimes all four. 

• Project Manager. Ideal if you’re organized and good with people. In-demand across industries with many remote options. Certifications like PMP or Scrum Master can help you break in. 
• Nurse Practitioner. A high-paying, meaningful healthcare role. Requires a master’s in nursing, but you can start faster by becoming a registered nurse (RN).
• Physician Assistant. A hands-on healthcare job with strong demand and great pay. Requires a master’s degree but less education than a doctor. 
• Human Resources Manager. Use your people skills to help others grow. Offers regular hours and good pay. Certifications like SHRM-CP or PHR are helpful. 
• Data Analyst. Great for curious, analytical minds. Bootcamps and certificates (like the Google Data Analytics Certificate) can get you started in under a year. 
• Teacher or School Counselor. Make an impact through education. Some states offer fast-track certification if you already have a degree. Bonus: summers off. 

Brenda returned to work after raising five kids and started a new career as a Special Needs Assistant: 

“SNAs were a new thing in Ireland, and the position opened up at the local school. The kids were in school, the hours matched theirs, so I thought, why not? I did the course in the evenings and got the job. I wanted to be home when they got home, so it worked out.” 

• Software Developer. Creative and flexible with good pay. Bootcamps and self-study can help you get in, but keep in mind that the tech industry is currently unstable. 
• Radiologic Technologist. Work in healthcare using X-rays and MRIs to support diagnoses. With just a two-year degree and a license, it’s a rewarding step between entry-level and advanced medical roles.
• Financial Consultant. Help people plan for the future. A good fit if you have a finance background or love budgeting. Certifications like CFP may be required. 
• Digital Marketing Specialist. Into writing, social media, or content? Marketing roles are creative, flexible, and don’t always need a degree. Google or HubSpot certs can help.
• Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA). Work one-on-one with patients to help them regain independence. Requires an associate degree and state licensure. 
• Hospitality professional. If you enjoy creating great experiences for others, a career in hospitality could be a fulfilling fit. 

This Reddit user left a high-powered job to open their own pizza restaurant: 

• Translator or Interpreter. Fluent in another language? This flexible, often remote role connects cultures and communities. Demand varies by language. 
• Cybersecurity Analyst. High pay, high demand, low barrier to entry. Certifications like CompTIA Security+ can launch your career in months. 
• UX Designer. Combine creativity with psychology to improve digital experiences. Bootcamps and online courses make this field very accessible. 
• Medical Office Administrator. A stable healthcare role with minimal training and no clinical duties. Good if you want to stay in the medical field without patient care. 
• Health Coach or Nutritionist. Support others in their wellness journeys. Many programs can be completed in under a year to build credibility. 
• Skilled trades (Electrician, Plumber, HVAC). High demand, great pay, and no four-year degree required. Apprenticeships often pay while you learn. 

This Reddit user moved from support work to a skilled trade and didn’t look back: 

• Real Estate Agent. Commission-based but flexible and full of potential — especially if you’re a people person. State licensing is required. 
• Mental Health Counselor. Deeply fulfilling work with strong demand. Requires a master’s degree and licensure, but worth it if you’re drawn to helping others. 
• Veterinary Technician. A great path for animal lovers. Requires an associate degree and offers emotionally rewarding work.
• AI or Machine Learning Specialist. More advanced but high-growth. If you’re tech-curious, certifications and online courses can help you transition. 

If you’re looking for the best-paying jobs, check out Highest Paying Jobs in the US. 

Final Thoughts: Should You Change Careers at 40? 

If you’re even thinking about it, that’s enough reason to explore it. Try a course, test the waters, and see how it feels — you don’t have to commit right away. 

As Matt put it: 

“It’s never too late to change your career. Learning new skills keeps you young, and if you’re passionate — or at least deeply interested — the difficult days aren’t that bad. There are risks, like losing seniority, pay, or benefits. But if you’ve weighed them and feel ready, the change can be good.” 

Summary 

Here are some of the key takeaways about changing your career at 40: 

• You have experience on your side — and at this stage, many people are seeking more purpose, flexibility, better pay, or simply a healthier work environment. 
• Start by identifying your values, strengths, and what you definitely don’t want in your next role. 
• Research new industries, talk to people in the field, and follow job trends. 
• Set SMART goals — Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound — to stay focused and on track.
• Check your finances, build savings, and consider part-time work or freelancing before quitting your current job. 
• Upskill with quick, targeted courses or certifications in high-demand fields like marketing, IT, or healthcare using platforms like Coursera, edX, or Udemy. 
• Don’t discount your transferable skills — leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving are always valuable.
• Let your network know you’re switching careers, connect with industry professionals, and stay active on platforms like LinkedIn. 
• Great career change options at 40 include project manager, healthcare worker, teacher, sales consultant, data analyst, and roles in tech or creative industries. 
• It’s never too late to start over. Challenges may pop up, but your experience, planning, and support system can carry you into a meaningful second-act career.

FAQ 

What jobs can I do from home with no experience? 

Entry-level remote jobs include customer service, data entry, sales, virtual assistant work, and online English tutoring if you’re a native speaker. If you’re a decent writer, try freelance writing or content creation. Creatives might enjoy graphic design, and if you’re tech-savvy, some companies hire junior developers or QA testers with minimal experience. Sites like Upwork, Indeed, and Remote.co are great places to start. 

What are good jobs for introverts? 

Jobs like software developer, data analyst, bookkeeper, or freelance writer can be a great fit — they’re quiet, remote-friendly, and let you work independently. More specialized roles like radiologist, lab tech, or research scientist also tend to be low on small talk. If you’re a creative introvert, try graphic design or editing. Look for roles that let you focus, skip the small talk, and work at your own pace. 

What do I do if I need a job now? 

If you need something fast, go for temp jobs or gig work — think food delivery, retail, warehouse, or hospitality. These usually hire quickly and get you earning right away. Check out entry-level remote roles like customer service or data entry. Don’t overlook networking — a quick message to a friend or ex-coworker could lead to something. And make sure your resume is professional, current, and tailored to each job you apply for. 

What are some jobs where you don’t have to talk to people? 

If you’re not big on chatting, go for quiet gigs like data entry, transcription, writing, graphic design, coding, or video editing. You can usually just plug in your headphones and do your thing. Warehouse jobs or delivery roles — like a UPS driver or package handler — are also good options if you prefer minimal interaction and being on the move. 

Is it hard to get a job right now? 

The market’s tough. There are more applicants, fewer remote roles, and things like ghost jobs and AI shifts aren’t helping. But with a strong resume, smart networking, and applying to jobs that truly match your skills, you can still land something solid — it just might take more time and effort than before. 

How to professionally quit a job? 

Keep it simple and respectful. Give two weeks’ notice (or whatever your contract says), write a short and polite resignation letter, and have a quick conversation with your boss if possible. You don’t need a long explanation — just thank them and share your last day. Offer to help with the transition so you leave on a high note and keep the relationship intact. 

How long does it take to find a new job? 

It depends — finding a job can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. Factors like your industry, experience, how much time you put into the search, and the job market itself all play a part. Being open to temp or entry-level roles can speed things up. Just keep at it — small steps, like submitting one application or contacting someone each day, can make a difference.