40s are the New 30s: Purposeful Planning for Mid-Career Professionals

Mid-career professionals in their 40s are at the most employable they'll ever be, plus they have the benefit of being agile in a multi-generational workforce. That's why 40 is the new 30, according to a panel of association leaders, including Andrea Mitchell CAE, FACHE, of the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine, Nathan Chamberlain CAE, of the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology, Haley Jones, CAE, of the American Staffing Association, and Liz Jones, CAE, of the Online Lenders Alliance.

Still, a range of challenges face this age cohort. A lower net worth than previous generations, later homeownership, lagging retirement preparations, and the dichotomy of family life - these adults are often referred to as the "sandwich generation" - all impact career planning and advancement.

There is and will continue to be more opportunity for those professionals who plan the next steps in their career with purpose. That can range from always asking, "What's next?" to formalizing a five-year (or even 10-year) plan.

The panel recommended professionals in their 40s, or those in their 30s already looking ahead to the next decade, complete a career gap analysis. It will lead you to evaluate your current state, desired future state, and the knowledge, skills or relationship "gaps" in between the two. You can then take action by setting SMART goals with the intention of filling that gap. Along the way, resources like an executive coach or mentors provide formalized resources, expertise and coaching.

Round out your purposeful approach to career growth with a financial plan that leads you toward more stability and flexibility, along with a new outlook on networking. Aim toward creating relationships, not contacts, and "say yes" with what the panel calls generous networking, which focuses on genuine curiosity and connection.