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Stuck in My Job at 42: Should I Quit Without a New Plan?

Aamish

Aamish Dhingra  |10 Answers  |Ask -

Life Coach - Answered on Mar 06, 2025

Aamish Dhingra is a life coach, educationalist and founder of Cocoweave Coaching International, which provides professional training to empower individuals and organisations.
With over seven years of experience in human resources, he specialises in corporate training, life coaching services and team coaching. His expertise lies in solving complex problems, leading innovative projects and delivering impactful solutions that drive growth and transformation.
Aamish completed his BBA (bachelor of business administration) from Amity University and MBA from Jamia Hamdard University, both in Noida.
He holds a PCC (professional certified coach) certification from the International Coaching Federation, USA, and a credentialed practitioner of coaching certification from the International Coach Guild, Australia.... more
Asked by Anonymous - Mar 04, 2025Hindi
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Relationship

I am 42. I feel stuck and miserable in my current job. There is no growth or motivation to work. I want to quit, but I'm struggling to understand what I actually want to do for a new job. Should I still go ahead and quit?

Ans: Feeling stuck at 42 isn’t unusual, but quitting without a plan won’t necessarily fix things. The real question is - what’s actually making you feel this way? Is it the work itself, the environment, or something else? If it’s about growth, have you actively tried pushing for opportunities, or does it just feel like a dead end? What conversations have you had about it? When it comes to quitting, what’s your plan for what comes next? Do you have clarity on where you want to go, or is it more about escaping your current situation? If staying feels unbearable, how can you create space for yourself while figuring things out? How much time do you need to explore your options before making a decision?
The answer isn’t just quitting - it’s clarity. So, where do you start?

Wishing you success,
Aamish Dhingra
ICF-PCC Certified Life Coach
Co-Founder, Cocoweave Coaching International, Delhi

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Career

Career Coach  |49 Answers  |Ask -

Workplace Expert - Answered on Apr 16, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 15, 2024Hindi
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Career
I am 42, and frustrated with my job. Is it okay if I quit my job at this age? I am a BCom graduate with 17 years of experience in accounting and finance. I have some savings. What else should I consider before resigning from my current job? I am currently single and stay with my retired parents.
Ans: Hey there,

Feeling stuck in your career can be as frustrating as getting stuck behind a slow-moving tractor on a narrow road. But fear not, because your situation is not as bleak as it may seem.

Firstly, let's address the age factor. At 42, you're like a fine wine - seasoned, mature, and ready to be savored. Age is just a number, and it certainly shouldn't dictate your career decisions. Many successful individuals have reinvented themselves and achieved great heights later in life. So, if you're feeling the urge to shake things up, don't let the digits on your birth certificate hold you back.

Now, onto the big question - should you quit your job? Well, it's like contemplating whether to ditch a leaky boat for a sturdier vessel. It all depends on your circumstances, aspirations, and tolerance for soggy socks.

Considering your background in accounting and finance, you've got a solid foundation to build upon. But before you bid adieu to your current gig, here are a few things to ponder:

1. Financial Assessment: Take a deep dive into your savings and financial commitments. Ensure you have a comfortable buffer to tide you over during your transition period. It's like balancing your books - make sure the numbers add up before making any drastic moves.

2. Skills and Interests: Reflect on your passions and skill set. Are there areas within accounting and finance that ignite your enthusiasm? Or perhaps you've been eyeing a completely different field? It's never too late to explore new horizons or pivot towards a career that aligns with your interests.

3. Networking: Dust off your LinkedIn profile and start connecting with industry professionals. Networking is the secret sauce to unlocking hidden opportunities and gaining valuable insights. Attend events, join online communities, and don't shy away from reaching out to people for informational interviews. Remember, relationships are like investments - they yield returns when nurtured.

4. Career Goals: Define your career objectives and chart out a roadmap to achieve them. Whether it's climbing the corporate ladder, starting your own venture, or embracing a portfolio career, clarity of purpose will steer you in the right direction. Set SMART goals - Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound - and watch your career aspirations come to life.

5. Support System: Lean on your support system for guidance and encouragement. Your retired parents can offer valuable insights and emotional support during this transitional phase. Having a strong support network is like having a trusty co-pilot - they'll help navigate the turbulence and celebrate your victories along the way.

Remember, life is too short to be stuck in a job that doesn't spark joy. So, muster up your courage, trust your instincts, and embark on this new chapter with gusto. Who knows, the best may be yet to come!

Wishing you smooth sailing and endless opportunities on your career journey!

Cheers!

..Read more

Shekhar

Shekhar Kumar  |154 Answers  |Ask -

Leadership, HR Expert - Answered on May 01, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 30, 2024Hindi
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Career
Hi, I am a mechanical engineer and having been working in the field of power plant from last 12 years. I don't enjoy my work now and feel that I am not meant for this job as I see no growth in my career. I'm 36 now and can't think of anything new as I don't think I can't enter into a new field at this age. No one will prefer me. What should I do?
Ans: Feeling stuck in your current career path is a common experience, but it's important to remember that it's never too late to make a change. Take some time to reflect on your skills, interests, values, and strengths. Consider what aspects of your current job you enjoy and what you would like to do differently in your next career move. Research other career paths and industries that align with your interests and transferable skills. Look for opportunities where your mechanical engineering background and experience in power plants could be valuable, such as in renewable energy, sustainability, project management, or technical sales. Identify any gaps in your skills or knowledge that may be necessary for transitioning to a new field. Consider taking courses, certifications, or workshops to acquire new skills or enhance existing ones. Many online platforms offer flexible learning options that you can pursue while still working. Reach out to your professional network, including colleagues, mentors, former classmates, and industry contacts. Inform them of your career interests and ask for advice, informational interviews, or referrals to potential employers or opportunities in your desired field. Evaluate whether pursuing additional education, such as a master's degree or specialized certification, would be beneficial for your career transition. Some programs offer opportunities for mid-career professionals to gain new skills and credentials. Look for volunteer or internship opportunities in your target industry or field. This can be a valuable way to gain hands-on experience, expand your network, and test out whether a new career path is the right fit for you before making a full transition.

..Read more

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