35-year-old Biswajit Mohanty completed his higher education by taking a loan and worked in a corporate for 11 years. But three years ago, he realized he didn’t want to do this until retirement. He asked himself two questions – if he had no worries about financial security, would he continue doing the same job? And is their work having an impact in the real world? After this he resigned.
While quitting the job, Biswajit wrote on social media that a bank balance without time and energy can provide convenience, but not happiness and satisfaction. Their story is a story of a changing trend where professionals aged 35-40 are not only looking for a good package but also value work-life balance.
The old definition of career is changing
A career path was decided earlier. Good degree, job, promotion and retirement. But skills are changing rapidly in the age of AI and automation. After spending 12-15 years in the same field, some professionals feel stagnant or stuck. Despite the promotions and raises, it seems it’s time for something new.
However, career counselor Jatin Aggarwal doesn’t think it’s just a matter of burnout or fear of technology. According to him, in my opinion it is not just burnout or fear of technology, but an identity shift. After 35 years, people think not only about how much I am earning, but also about what I am paying for what I am earning. Now people want to be not only successful but also satisfied.
According to the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs 2025 report, about 39 percent of the skills needed for current jobs are expected to change by 2030. In such a situation, the reason for changing career is not only because of dissatisfaction but also to prepare oneself for the future.
Leaving corporate, shifting priorities
After working at Google for 10 years, 40-year-old Megha Girish started a venture called Travancore Collective with her sisters. Now she runs her own business while traveling and is not tied to one city. 35-year-old Pranshu Dwivedi decided to step down as executive director to devote time to his children and family.
Reasons for decision are different but one thing is common that success is no longer measured by post pay package and social status. For some, work is important, while for others, making time for family and personal life is important.
Leaving corporate and starting a new job is not easy. With it comes uncertainty of income, market challenges and pressure to learn new skills.
How much backup is required before leaving the job?
Jatin Aggarwal says at least 12 months of necessary expenses should be backed up before quitting a job. If there are family obligations or EMIs, 18 months is better. Because you can’t focus on your passion while worrying about money. Financial planning is essential before financial freedom.
It means that it is not enough to just resign from the job. Savings, loans, family responsibilities and the time it takes to start generating income from a new job need to be calculated. You can test your preparation first by doing small projects or part-time work in the field you want to go into.
Skill gap is more dangerous than career gap.
Returning to corporate after leaving a job can also be challenging. Corporate India is changing now, but not completely, says Jatin Aggarwal. The good thing is that companies are now focusing not only on career gaps but also on skills and adaptability. But the comeback is not easy. Skill gap is more dangerous than career gap. Your chances will definitely increase if you keep yourself updated.
This means that it is important to learn new technologies, stay connected with the industry and update your skills even during breaks. The decision to change careers should be one that enhances the future rather than making it an option.
Resign, not your ability
Leaving the identity of manager or director and starting a new life is also mentally challenging. As identities acquired over the years change, comparisons begin. Career counselor Jatin Aggarwal says that first learn to separate your position from your identity. You may lose your position, but not your experience and skills. Make small goals, give yourself time. Stop comparing. You are starting fresh with experience, not from scratch.
Changing careers at 35 or 40 is not in itself a right or wrong decision. It’s just a matter of how well it matches your current work, your needs and your future. Before leaving corporate, decide what you want to do and how prepared you are financially and professionally for that change.
