Mid Career Perspectives: Staying Motivated and Engaged in Times of Change and Restructuring

If you’re at a particular life experience level, you’ve seen and experienced much change. Much of it is necessary, and some of it is mystifying. An environment or industry with frequent and predictable restructuring can test your resolve and motivation, particularly in mid or late-career situations. Maintaining your position income or attitude while adapting to new trends and guiding others through turbulent times can be daunting and stressful at this or any career stage.

Let’s be clear and recognize that restructuring often comes with a redistribution of work and frequently more work, at least in the short term. Or, in your case, you may gain more responsibility, get a promotion, or get better compensation. For this discussion, I am focused on observations and perspectives from my clients that may help you feel motivated and engaged during this career phase, not any particular situation. 

Leverage Your Experience to Guide Others

Your extensive experience is one of your greatest assets during times of change. While it can be unsettling, you’ve likely seen similar scenarios before and can use your knowledge to navigate this one more successfully. Use this experience to guide your decisions, attitude, and behavior, as well as mentor and support younger colleagues.

By positioning yourself as a stabilizing force and a source of wisdom, you can find renewed motivation to help others grow and succeed. This sense of contribution can be fulfilling and increase your engagement level.

Embrace the Opportunity to Reinvent

Restructuring often requires reinvention, not just for the organization but also for you as a professional. Mid- to late career is ideal, yet not always easy, for exploring new avenues, whether adopting new skills, refining your approach, or taking on different roles within the organization.

The word reinvention seems a bit extreme but stay with me. Your mindset and attitude are the only areas you have complete control of, so your perspective on change significantly impacts your ability to adapt in this situation or any situation. 

Prioritize Personal Fulfillment

At this stage in your career, personal fulfillment becomes increasingly essential. It’s natural and healthy to do so. Don’t get me wrong, professional achievements are still significant, but it’s also vital to ensure that your work and life align with your values and satisfy you. Fulfillment, purpose, and satisfaction are found inside and outside your career. Take a moment to understand where you find satisfaction, purpose or fulfillment. You may be surprised to see how alignment can boost your motivation and keep you engaged in your career, even in the face of continuous change.

Recognize Contributions and Impact 

It’s easy to overlook your contributions, even if they are not recognized right now during this period of upheaval. However, remembering and celebrating your achievements is vital for maintaining motivation. Acknowledge your successes throughout your career and the positive impact you’ve had on your organization or others. I’m not saying live in the past, but let’s be clear: You’ve accomplished some things and probably helped people along the way—or, let’s hope, we have. Don’t rely on others to inventory your impact. Do it yourself and for yourself. 

Recognizing your contributions can reinforce your sense of purpose and remind you of the value you bring to the table. It’s a powerful motivator that can sustain you during change.

Transitions are complex, and I work with clients to navigate and even thrive during and after significant life transitions. I hope these perspectives are helpful to you.