That head tilted look of confusion when I explain I’m a chartered accountant turned psychotherapeutic counsellor is a common occurrence. I still “do accounting” but in a much different way than previously, it’s on my own terms.
To be honest, I really did not relish another three years training, it was hard enough the first time round trying to work and study. But somehow, I stumbled upon something which really resonated. It didn’t even start out as a career; it was self-development, but slowly I realised that all my experiences, current and new training could be put to good use.
So, what’s it like to radically change career in your forties? Answer…. unbelievably scary and utterly rewarding all at once. Why? Starting a second career is no small feat, especially when it’s your own business.
Some of the main worries I had/have:
- Being every department, sometimes all in the same day
- Realising you have a distinct lack of experience in some areas and having to find the right help
- It’s all on you, there’s no passing the buck or waiting for someone else to pick something up
- Accepting there’s some stuff you don’t know you don’t know
- Coping with a fear of failure almost every day
- There are no days off
So, if that’s the unbelievably scary part what’s the reward?
- Finding wonderful, likeminded and helpful people who gave me advice and support when I really needed it (you know who you are, thank you).
- Counselling those is crisis is a privilege especially where I am just now helping primary school children with the charity Place 2 Be.
- Knowing that what I can do for others really means something and far outweighs scary part.
I was a typical accountant, I needed structure, balance, certainty and rules. None of which I have now by the way, but it’s totally ok. I’ve learned completely new skills, found balance and learned to help others in a way I would never have thought possible. I still love accountancy (yes really, I do) but my focus and passion has shifted.
If you’re thinking about changing career, starting again or just learning something totally different, face your fear and go for it., if I can do it……
Kirsty Ritchie
