In "The Next Act: A Complete Guide to Career Change, Professional Reinvention, and Finding Work That Matters," Michael Feeley, a former professional actor, headhunter, and now career coach, talks about changing careers. He wrote his book for people of, shall we say, the "usual" workforce age and for people of a more mature age. Whatever their age or situation, Feeley helps readers reflect on their work and fears, and guides readers through thoughtful questions to help them do the one thing that will move them forward – make decisions.
I read The Next Act for two reasons. First, I am of a more mature age. Even so, I have another 25-year career (or many careers) ahead of me. Second, I've been frustrated with aging since I was 49.5, and thought I should finally give this up.
I share this book with you today because of a question asked ahead of last week's panel discussion. It was a question about age and working in the environmental education (EE) field. The question immediately brought to mind a conversation I had earlier this year. It was with someone who wanted to get involved in some form of EE and climate work. I don't recall the specifics of their previous career, but it was related to curriculum development in a sector other than K-12 education. This person wanted to apply their work experience to a new job in the climate sector.
All of this made me wonder...
For how many people in our community is EE a second career? A third career?
A fourth career?
I set up a poll to begin exploring this question. I'd love to learn how the Transferable Solutions community can help with resources, introductions, and other forms of support wherever you are on your journey.
Thank you,
Tania
Photo by Anthony Cantin on Unsplash
New Ways Forward
This section features creative and community-based approaches to environmental work, highlighting freelance environmental educators and alternative career models that break from traditional environmental education.
A practical section dedicated to explaining methods for environmental learning and public engagement. Featuring resources for environmental educators and community leaders.
This section identifies and explores potential partnerships between environmental professionals, community groups, businesses, and other unexpected collaborators to create new opportunities.
I started a book club conversation around the book Women Don't Ask, and it is off to a grand start. There is time to jump in and join us inside Purple.Space if you're interested. After you join, reach out and I will help you navigate the community. You'll find me at @taniamarien.
Cross-sector Freelance Opportunity
A section focused on diverse environmental career paths, featuring interviews and information for those seeking meaningful work in environmental-related fields.
Mongabay is an award-winning independent newsroom that works with a global network of journalists. The publication is accepting pitches for stories about the regions shown below.
To pitch Mongabay a story, please visit their site to learn about what they are looking for and to study their pitch guidelines. Click on the image below.
