This one is dedicated to the Gen X folks who typically worked for the first few years without a computer. Those who believed that leaving stable jobs is not a good career move.  It’s for those who believe that processes are more important than results. And it’s for those who always believed in saying ‘Yes Sir’. If you feel you have reached a career menopause and that the most fertile days of your career are over, it’s time to break some myths and follow the below step by step documented process.

Myth 1: That’s not my job

Stop doing just your job. I agree you can do that very well. But that alone will not help you move to the next level. Can you improve the existing routine? Can you find out and plug the risks? You have to keep the romance with your work alive. So go out of your way and do things that are not expected.

Step 1: Take Initiatives

Myth 2: I was not told

How will you take initiatives if you don’t take charge? So you were brought up in a tight controlled family where you were supposed to obey your elders. Taking charge doesn’t come easy to you. But you need it more than you realize. Don’t wait for boss’s directions, for processes to be rolled out, for complete clarity, for support from others. YOU have to make it all happen.

Step 2: Take charge   

Myth 3: I don’t have authority to decide

If you don’t make decisions, you can’t take charge. Tough decisions. Unpopular decisions. Someone needs to take them. Let that be you. Don’t fear, don’t be on the fence. With your level of expertise, you will rarely go wrong. And even if you do, it’s better than No decision.

Step 3: Make a decision, take a stand

Myth 4: Better be safe than sorry

It’s very easy to say ‘No’ to all risks. It’s as foolish as it is to say ‘Yes’ to all risks. Use your vast experience to not just know what can go wrong but also to understand the probability. So go ahead – try out bungee jumping or para-sailing or anything that u thought was risky but otherwise widely practiced by others

Step 4: Take risks

Myth 5: I was told ‘No’

You can’t take a stand if you don’t push back resistance and convince others. Just because someone doesn’t agree with you, it doesn’t make you wrong. Weigh the pros and cons. If you strongly believe your point of view, don’t give up. Don’t you have to do that with your kids and parents all the time?

Step 5: Convince and Persuade others

Myth 6: Let my work speak for itself

This rule is as outdated as the Ambassador cars and Bell Bottom pants. It doesn’t mean you go around bragging about what you do. But speak up in forums, strengthen your network, share your thoughts with colleagues, build a relationship with your Super Boss or Department Head, so that you can walk up to him and share your ideas once in a while.

Step 6: Be visible

Myth 7: Hamare zamane main… (Kids these days….)

If you find yourself being overly critical of the Gen Y, it’s time to realize you are running towards obsolescence. Don’t blame the young if they have reached where you are faster. Don’t compare salaries and sulk. India has more than 65% population below the age of 35. They will outnumber you. Be smart about it.

Step 7: Learn to manage Gen Y

Myth 8: School is for kids

One thing that is given to you as dowry when you turn 40 is rigidity. It takes a lot to say No to it. So try your best to remain flexible. Don’t shy away from learning new skills and new technology. It will push the envelope, and keep you out of the comfort zone.

Step 8: Continuous improvement of your skills

Mid-life comes with its own set of problems, let your job not be one of them. Hope the above helps you in resurrecting your career.

P.S. As a blogger my only concern is that those who need the above advice are definitely not those who read blogs.