Redefining Ourselves
- 1. Paula S. deWitte, J.D., Ph.D., P.E.
- 2. Where are you today? Who are you today? Nobody knows what the next 40+ years will bring ◦ Economically ◦ Technologically ◦ Personally ◦ … We will all age … hopefully …
- 4. Statistics on number of job changes in an average life: 11 Statistics on number of career changes in an average life: 4 – 7 What is a career change? What do those statistics even mean? Did you make a mistake with the first career choice? ◦ Few decisions in life are so big and encompassing that you cannot change your mind and do something else.
- 5. “Prepare for your next job on the first day of this job.” “Prepare for your next career during this career.” “Prepare for your last career during your first career.” Focus on the work and building skills … and less on the job title.
- 6. Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results. Look at career/life disruptions as unique opportunities to redefine yourselves. It’s up to you. Nobody is going to pull you through it. Start new … refresh your networks, embrace new ideas and concepts. Filter through advice. Go with your heart. You’re never too old or too young to make changes happen.
- 7. Where are you now? Where do you plan to be in 10, 20, 30, 40 … years There’s logical and obvious choices. The logical and less obvious. The “big risk” – become an entrepreneur and start your own company. Be an entrepreneur within your current job.
- 8. Your most important career goal is developing yourself…
- 11. If you’re in your 20s and 30s, start thinking about the timeline of your career and life. If you’re in the redefinition mode, find like- minded people for support. Don’t take anything personally, BUT Demand the respect you deserve in your career. Jean Bartik
- 12. “Fear is what makes us old …” Emmy Cleaves 80-something Bikram Yoga Instructor
- 13. Finding New Technology Opportunities in a Changing Economy for Women of a Certain Age Published in the ACM Women in Computing Newsletter, Summer 2011. Available: http://women.acm.org/archives/newsletter/news letter_v0302.pdf