Since the Covid-19 pandemic, I've talked to many professionals in their 50s who find themselves out of work. Many lament the fact that they're at a time in life where they are supporting kids in college and have huge car and mortgage payments. They feel they need to make an income that is as much or more than they previously made.
It's become apparent that professionals in this scenario should try to support an economically viable life rather than price themselves out of the market. It's one of the biggest lessons I've learned on my own over the years.
While many professionals may have made $200k plus in the past, these high-earning roles are few and far between. I see the lower tiers of the industry expanding, but not the top end.
Yet, everyone wants to find a job to support what they have instead of thinking about living within their means. It would be wise to create a life by design that provides more flexibility during these unprecedented times. Reconfigure your life and watch as new career avenues open before you, especially if you're over 50.
When you don't set an exceedingly high standard for earning, you may find you have more options, not to mention peace.
Remember: It's not a job by design. It's a life by design. Your job will follow. As Kenny Rogers once said, "You got to know when to hold 'em, know when to fold 'em."