Member-only story
Finding a Tech Job After 50
Lessons learned from my job search
I hit a wall at my job two years ago. I was feeling the effects of burnout. I sat at my desk and thought about what was in store for me this week, this month, this year. Stress was taking a toll on my health. I wasn’t eating well, sleeping well, or exercising.
I remember the moment when something snapped. I had no more energy to give. That afternoon I felt like an outsider in my own office. I felt like a soldier wearing the uniform of the wrong army, and I could no longer march forward.
I agonized over the decision to leave over the next two weeks. I weighed a few variables when trying to finalize the decision to leave.
The golden handcuffs were strong at this company, and the retirement compensation increased each year of work. If I could stay in my position at this company until age 62, I would have enough to retire. That was certain, and I knew I was extremely fortunate.
I worked as a musician during my twenties. Like most musicians, it was often difficult to find work. I knew how fortunate I was to have full-time work in Information technology. I always felt blessed to have steady work and a legitimate career.
I evaluated my finances. I had no young children. I had paid off my house, and I had been funding my 401k for the last…
