Careers: Pivot Smart, Lead Strong

By Donna Burfield - Joy & Purpose Coaching   Leadership in midlife is not a consolation prize, a “last chapter,” or something to quietly step back from. It is, in many ways, the point at which your value, capability, and contribution are at their peak. Far from being “past it,” individuals in their 50s, 60s and beyond bring an essential combination of wisdom, stability, strategic thinking and emotional intelligence that organisations and communities need now more than ever.  

By Donna Burfield - Joy & Purpose Coaching Pivoting your career isn’t a midlife crisis; it’s a midlife power move. You’re not stepping backwards; you’re flipping the script and choosing a path that finally matches your experience, energy and ambition.  Here are 6 clear, practical steps tailored specifically for midlife professionals.   Start with Your Transferable Skills   List everything you’ve done, not just tasks, but outcomes .   Ask yourself: What problems do I solve nat

By Donna Burfield - Joy & Purpose Coaching   Advocating for yourself at work can feel uncomfortable at any age, but many people in their 50s and beyond face a unique challenge: the fear of being perceived as “difficult,” “demanding,” or “past it.”   Speaking up for your needs, strengths, contributions and development is not only appropriate, but essential. Most importantly, it is a skill, not a personality trait. And it is a skill you can develop at any stage of life.   This

By Donna Burfield - Joy & Purpose Coaching   Leadership today looks very different from leadership 20 or even 10 years ago.   Organisations are shifting away from rigid hierarchy, command-and-control mindsets, and “power over” structures. Instead, modern leaders are expected to communicate clearly, build trust, lead ethically, and create psychologically safe environments where people feel valued and supported.   For men and women over 50, this shift is an opportunity, not a t

By Donna Burfield - Joy & Purpose Coaching A career change later on in life doesn’t require starting again; it requires choosing qualifications that recognise and build on the experience you already have. This article highlights practical, credible options to support a confident and purposeful transition into your next career. 1. Coaching & Mentoring Qualifications (Accredited) For those seeking meaningful, people-focused work that uses empathy, communication skills and life

By Donna Burfield - Joy & Purpose Coaching   There comes a point in life, especially in our 40s, 50s, 60s, and beyond, when we begin to realise something powerful:   We are sitting on a lifetime of knowledge, resilience, stories, failures, wins, expertise, and lived wisdom that most professional development courses could never teach. And people need that.   Whether you’re looking to elevate your current career, future-proof your role, support colleagues, transition into a lea