KEVA, headquartered in Mumbai, has global footprint in Fragrance, Flavours and Aroma Ingredients, combining a deep rooted flair for the art of creating, with a thoroughly researched understanding of sensory trends.

Summer of 2000, I was interacting and on boarding a large group of fresh graduate Engineers hired from various campuses in a large manufacturing set up. Excitement of the new job coupled with anxiety to go through a month long detailed orientation plan drawn for them was very obvious. On being asked “What’s that one thing you want achieve in next 10 years in your career?” there was a mixed response starting from career growth, international exposure, learning new areas of expertise etc.but one of them said “I only want to earn more and more money so that I can support my mother and sister who have done lot of sacrifices and gone through severe hardship to bring me up”. 17 years later, December 2017, I was at a CSR award ceremony of one of partner NGO, who are doing some pioneering work in the areas of disability. One elderly gentleman got an individual contribution award as he has done some magnificent work in fund raising and expanding opportunities for visually challenged people in Gujarat. While receiving the award he said, “I am working for this cause for last 15 years post my retirement from Corporate. I am retired but I am not tired”. It made me think how career choices and goals differ at different stages of life for different people. It only evolves as we embrace new challenges and explore new opportunities.

However, many a times when people reach their mid-career, they become unsure of what’s next in terms of career and life goals or simply unsure of how they can recharge and re-energise themselves. Research in the areas of life satisfaction has indicated that satisfaction is at its peak when people are young; it declines in early 30s and starts increasing once again by mid 50s. Sometimes during the mid career

one may still be far off from the goals that they would have set for themselves during the early days and are not able to come into terms with that situation.

However, many a times when people reach their midcareer, they become unsure of what’s next in terms of career and life goals or simply unsure of how they can recharge and reenergise themselves.

Many a times, one may by and large achieve whatever they think they aspire for and then suddenly the bubble bursts. And there you are with realization moment that you do not see a higher level of career or personal goal. Things may appear plateaued even when you have still a long life to go! Everyone has their own achievement orientation. Some are overtly driven, ambitious and like to set higher goals and run for that. Some are not. They enjoy steady or at times slow pace, moderate goal and challenges in life and not gets easily bored with lack of challenges or newness. However as you approach closer to your midlife and career you start questioning yourself for some of the very purpose for which you live and work.

This mid career challenge can be better dealt with and managed if you –
•Identify early and talk about your midcareer challenges and dilemmas if have one. There is no stigma attached to it and believe me you are not alone.
•Talking to a senior colleague or a mentor who has gone through these midlife situations can be quite useful. They will be able to help you to rethink and reshape your way of looking at the next journey.
•People who have higher level of ability to manage stress and are emotionally mature can manage this phase well; how do you become more competent in that area.
•Re-skilling oneself: I have personally found that a lot of people are benefitted with adapting the new learning or education program in their midlife. It not only brings new learnings but takes you back to school again and builds a network of new people coming from different walks of life. Can you open that door for yourself?

•Sometimes we may need to swap skills or areas of expertise, which we have built over the years. What about adding one or two more areas of expertise and seeking a new horizon.

•Many companies today understand and offer structured employee assistance program and support to help you to rediscover your career, life and energise you to unlock your full potential. Join one if you get it in your way.

Gone are the days when people use to retire in their late 50s. The scenario today has changed. People have many choices to pursue their interest based on the capacity. I personally know so many of my senior colleagues, who are enjoying their work for a cause and giving back what they are really good at and at their own pace.

So, don’t retire in your mind, you can do wonders if you really know what makes you really happy and start unlocking your next big potential.