Recently I have begun questioning my work life and what I want to do when I “grow up.” At the age of 50 I unexpectedly lost my dream job and have struggled for the past three years with figuring out what to do next. At this age, it is not as easy to pick up and move on like it was thirty years ago.

Employers are looking for that young fresh out of college employee who can afford to start at lower pay and move their way up or candidates with specialized trade skills such as welding or technical services. I fit into neither category. I am an experienced “jack or jill” of all trades. I have management, training, nonprofit and customer service skills. I have the need for health benefits since this body isn’t getting any younger!

Don’t get me wrong, I am very capable and still have many years of work life in me but what I wanted to do thirty years ago is different than now. I don’t want to work 50 to 60 hours a week and still bring work home at night. I don’t need to be under alot of stress and add additional health issues to this already aging body!

So what does a fifty something single female look for or do? Not an easy answer but I have been looking and considering several options. I have really liked the idea of having a side business that provides supplemental income while I work for a company that provides my benefits but may not pay so well. I actually took the plunge recently and started Hillbilly Hippie http://www.hillbillyhippie.biz which is a dropship business that sells fun, casual and comfortable women’s clothing, footwear, jewelry and accessories. Check it out if you are interested. I have also looked at WFH (work from home) options. There seems to be some great options with companies looking for remote workers who can work flexible hours and some even offer benefits as well!

Whatever I find myself doing I hope to close my working years enjoying work, making enough to provide for myself, retire and enjoy some more motorcycle rides, lake time and hand off what’s left to my children!