{"id":3529,"date":"2022-07-29T11:08:00","date_gmt":"2022-07-29T10:08:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/barnsmokepictures.com\/?p=3529"},"modified":"2022-07-29T11:08:32","modified_gmt":"2022-07-29T10:08:32","slug":"changing-lanes-after-50-how-to-handle-a-mid-life-career-switch","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/barnsmokepictures.com\/?p=3529","title":{"rendered":"CHANGING LANES AFTER 50: how to handle a mid-life career switch"},"content":{"rendered":"\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.14.0″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” collapsed=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.14.0″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”0px||||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.14.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”|600|||||||” text_font_size=”14px” text_orientation=”right” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Photo by Michiel Annaert<\/a> on Unsplash<\/a><\/strong><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ module_id=”canny-blogpost” _builder_version=”4.14.0″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”0px||||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” collapsed=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ collapsed=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″ custom_margin=”0px||||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.14.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”Raleway||||||||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″ custom_margin=”0px||||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false”]

Alex Doy<\/strong> is a formidable human being.<\/p>\n

Having been raised on a farm in Lincolnshire, UK, Alex is no stranger to hard work. This woman\u2019s got grit \u2013 tons of it.\u00a0From the age of nine she was a logistics manager with a checklist a mile long. By the time she hit 16, she was independently forging her way in the world, working various jobs locally and abroad. At age 39 she bought a franchise business. Eight and a half years later she sold it at a profit and purchased a buy-to-let property. For the next three years, to pay the bills, Alex happily took on a smorgasbord of regular part-time jobs.<\/p>\n

And now?<\/p>\n

Now, at age 52<\/strong>, Alex has changed lanes again. And she\u2019s relishing every minute.<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_5,3_5″ disabled_on=”off|off|off” module_id=”authentology-blogpost” _builder_version=”4.14.0″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”0px||0px||true|false” collapsed=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_5″ _builder_version=”4.14.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/barnsmokepictures.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Alex-Doy.jpg” alt=”Corporate look” title_text=”Alex Doy” url=”https:\/\/thecannywreathco.uk” url_new_window=”on” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.14.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”Raleway||||||||” custom_margin=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Alex, what persuaded you to purchase a franchise business, and why did you give it up?<\/strong><\/p>\n

I\u2019ve always worked in the service industry in some capacity: from waitressing and bartending to event coordination and management. So when the opportunity arose in 2009 for me to buy my own franchise \u2013 the UK\u2019s no. 1 dog-sitting service \u2013 I dove in.<\/p>\n

My \u2018business owner\u2019 journey was fantastic; there were many points I loved about the franchise and I was very successful with it. But it also had some negatives. It nearly killed me.<\/p>\n

When I got to the stage where I was completely burnt out, I realised I needed to get out. And also, I was aware of where the business was at that time: it was running at an excellent capacity and it was in a very profitable state. And businesses don\u2019t always remain profitable for any length of time. So I felt it was the right time to sell \u2013 and I successfully sold it in 2017.<\/p>\n

The moment I stepped away from the dog-care franchise, I made the decision to never again put myself in that position \u2013 where it nearly kills you. A lot of that was based on the 24\/7 communication that customers now expect in the 21st century.<\/p>\n

Good point. So you re-evaluated your life?<\/strong><\/p>\n

Yes. Once I realised that for my mental state I needed to change careers, I vowed not to get caught in that rut again.<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_5,2_5″ disabled_on=”off|off|off” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-27px||10px||false|false” collapsed=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.14.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”Raleway||||||||” custom_margin=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]

What was the result of your life re-evaluation?<\/strong><\/p>\n

I realised I wanted a job without the full responsibility I\u2019d had with my own business. Also, I knew, after driving 22,000 miles a year \u2013 as much as I love driving \u2013 I was happier to be in a job where I could cycle to work; I get a great deal out of it.<\/p>\n

Like a lot of people, I have bills to pay and I solely rely on myself. But although I could have taken on a regular nine-to-five job in Nottingham city and earned good money, I still wanted to be able to step back a bit and not rush straight into something like that. I didn\u2019t want a full-on, fulltime career straight after selling the business. So I decided to mix many roles to make up my working week.<\/p>\n

Magically, I was able to create enough hours through different roles. Variety is key! Also, by having several roles, you\u2019re not placing all your eggs in one basket<\/strong>. And in the current climate, that\u2019s very important.<\/p>\n

All of the roles were fulfilling in the short term. My main source of income came from being a part-time delivery driver for a local supermarket \u2013 a set contracted period of three shifts per week. But the rest of the week was made up of roles I could say yes or no to (an important feature when you\u2019re used to being responsible for yourself), e.g.: working at outdoor catering events, doing weddings, driving cars through a local auction house, event management relief…<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_5″ _builder_version=”4.14.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/barnsmokepictures.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Eggs-in-baskets-800×534.jpg” alt=”Ally grins” title_text=”Eggs in baskets” url=”https:\/\/thecannycustomco.uk” url_new_window=”on” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”20px||0px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”|600|||||||” text_font_size=”14px” text_orientation=”right” custom_margin=”0px||||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Photo by Gabe Pierce<\/a> on Unsplash<\/a><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”Raleway||||||||” custom_margin=”10px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]

These were all small contracts (a set amount of hours per day or week) where I was providing a service, but it was not my sole responsibility<\/em>. I was just a part of the team support, and that was important to me. When I left each job at the end of the day, I didn\u2019t give it another thought. For my mental state and peace of mind, this was the break I needed from life.<\/strong> And I pursued this path for three years.<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″ custom_margin=”0px||30px||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.14.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”Bad Script|700|||||||” text_text_color=”#025454″ text_font_size=”20px” text_letter_spacing=”2px” background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” text_orientation=”center” custom_padding=”11px|0px|11px|0px|true|true” border_width_all=”2px” border_color_all=”#409993″ border_style_all=”none” box_shadow_style=”preset6″ global_colors_info=”{}”]

An Empty Head When You Go To Bed.<\/strong><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row disabled_on=”off|off|off” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ collapsed=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″ custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.14.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”Raleway||||||||” global_colors_info=”{}”]

During those three years you weren\u2019t pursuing your passion, though, right? So what did you do in your time off that made you happy? For example, you woke up every morning and thought: I can\u2019t wait to\u2026 today?<\/strong><\/p>\n

Well, because my mind wasn\u2019t so challenged and overly busy as it had been when I was running a business, for a while I just really enjoyed having an empty head. And an empty head when you go to bed is all you\u2019ll ever need.<\/p>\n

The role at the supermarket was a means to an end, satisfying enough; it ticked enough boxes. So although, yes, driving for the supermarket wasn\u2019t a massive passion, I got a great deal of satisfaction from what it gave me in life: money to pay my bills, an empty head, time to enjoy various outlets, like running, yoga, kayaking\u2026 and the ability to be present.<\/p>\n

Throughout the time I had the dog-care business, I was never present in the moment. On holiday, out for dinner with friends, etc. \u2013 the phone would be going. There would be a request from a customer and my mind would be elsewhere. And now that I\u2019ve been able to step back from that, I can see it in other people, when they\u2019re doing it with their businesses, and I know I don\u2019t ever want to be in that state again. So the gift from selling the business, and doing a job I wasn\u2019t passionate about for a while, was getting my mental state back to where it should be.<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ disabled_on=”off|off|off” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”50px||10px||false|false” custom_margin_tablet=”0px||0px||false|false” custom_margin_phone=”5px||20px||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” hover_enabled=”0″ collapsed=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″ custom_padding=”0px||||false|false”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.14.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/barnsmokepictures.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/watch-in-water.jpg” alt=”Fit and fab” title_text=”watch in water” url=”https:\/\/thecannycustomco.uk” url_new_window=”on” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” custom_padding=”||0px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”|600|||||||” text_font_size=”14px” text_orientation=”right” custom_margin=”0px||||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Photo by Alex Perez<\/a> on Unsplash<\/a><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.14.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text content_tablet=”

Art, Life & Soul Design and Illustration<\/strong><\/a> covers many types of graphic design, from logos and branding — particularly for start-ups — to advertising for local event companies and menus for pubs and restaurants.<\/p>\n

Georgina also creates the most incredible pet portraits on commission. (She calls them PAWtraits. Isn\u2019t that adorable?)<\/p>\n

There being no end to this artist\u2019s talents, Georgina has recently become an author as well, having written and illustrated her first children\u2019s book.<\/p>\n

Be inspired, and discover:<\/p>\n

Georgina\u2019s gorgeous CHRISTMAS RANGE.<\/p>\n

PLUS:<\/em> a BEAUTIFULLY ILLUSTRATED STORY for three- to eight-year-olds.<\/p>\n

<\/p>” content_phone=”

Art, Life & Soul Design and Illustration<\/strong> <\/a>covers many types of graphic design, from logos and branding — particularly for start-ups — to advertising for local event companies and menus for pubs and restaurants.<\/p>\n

Georgina also creates the most incredible pet portraits on commission. (She calls them PAWtraits. Isn\u2019t that adorable?)<\/p>\n

There being no end to this artist\u2019s talents, Georgina has recently become an author as well, having written and illustrated her first children\u2019s book.<\/p>\n

Be inspired, and discover:<\/p>\n

Georgina\u2019s gorgeous CHRISTMAS RANGE.<\/p>\n

PLUS:<\/em> a BEAUTIFULLY ILLUSTRATED STORY for three- to eight-year-olds.<\/p>” content_last_edited=”off|phone” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”Raleway||||||||” custom_margin_tablet=”0px||||false|false” custom_margin_phone=”0px||||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”off|tablet” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Absolutely. You finally got to live<\/em>, to be there<\/em>. That\u2019s so important. We don\u2019t have to keep striving non-stop and be motivated to do, do, do. We\u2019re human beings, after all, not human doings.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Exactly! So, whenever life is not perfect, a certain richness \u2013 a quality of life \u2013 can always be found in other areas, in other ways of living. And I certainly have gained that. When I read a book now, I enjoy every moment. Whereas, before, my mind would be so filled, I can\u2019t say I absolutely enjoyed the book.<\/p>\n

I can\u2019t recommend this enough \u2013 this taking time out. Anyone who is feeling burnt out and needs a break can spend at least two or three years enjoying this existence, as long as their ends meet financially\u2026<\/p>\n

Until the next challenge enters their mind. Which is what happened to me after three years. The drive came again: to want to do something, but not jump into the same sort of business.<\/p>\n

That\u2019s vital, isn\u2019t it? Knowing what you don\u2019t<\/em> want out of life. There are so many people who haven\u2019t a clue what they want to do \u2013 but perhaps a good place to start is: make a list of things you absolutely don\u2019t<\/em> want to do, or results you don\u2019t want. <\/strong><\/p>\n

Correct. So many feel that the moment they finish one project they must rush on to another, or they\u2019re not valued or successful in some way.<\/p>\n

All I can say from experience is: taking time out, two or three years even, and making ends meet with a role that suits you, but also where you can find yourself again<\/em>, is priceless.<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ disabled_on=”off|off|off” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-24px||||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ collapsed=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.13.1″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text content_tablet=”

Art, Life & Soul Design and Illustration<\/strong><\/a> covers many types of graphic design, from logos and branding — particularly for start-ups — to advertising for local event companies and menus for pubs and restaurants.<\/p>\n

Georgina also creates the most incredible pet portraits on commission. (She calls them PAWtraits. Isn\u2019t that adorable?)<\/p>\n

There being no end to this artist\u2019s talents, Georgina has recently become an author as well, having written and illustrated her first children\u2019s book.<\/p>\n

Be inspired, and discover:<\/p>\n

Georgina\u2019s gorgeous CHRISTMAS RANGE.<\/p>\n

PLUS:<\/em> a BEAUTIFULLY ILLUSTRATED STORY for three- to eight-year-olds.<\/p>\n

<\/p>” content_phone=”

Art, Life & Soul Design and Illustration<\/strong> <\/a>covers many types of graphic design, from logos and branding — particularly for start-ups — to advertising for local event companies and menus for pubs and restaurants.<\/p>\n

Georgina also creates the most incredible pet portraits on commission. (She calls them PAWtraits. Isn\u2019t that adorable?)<\/p>\n

There being no end to this artist\u2019s talents, Georgina has recently become an author as well, having written and illustrated her first children\u2019s book.<\/p>\n

Be inspired, and discover:<\/p>\n

Georgina\u2019s gorgeous CHRISTMAS RANGE.<\/p>\n

PLUS:<\/em> a BEAUTIFULLY ILLUSTRATED STORY for three- to eight-year-olds.<\/p>” content_last_edited=”off|phone” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”Raleway||||||||” custom_margin_tablet=”0px||||false|false” custom_margin_phone=”0px||||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”off|tablet” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

Sage advice. Care to share any more?<\/strong><\/p>\n

It\u2019s important to know: it\u2019s not all about money. And there\u2019s no rush. It will come to you. Because you\u2019re creating the mind space <\/strong>to be able to look out at what\u2019s around you and what\u2019s working.<\/p>\n

Well, it certainly worked for you. Tell us how your latest venture came about.<\/strong><\/p>\n

My latest venture, and hopefully my last, came about from trying to replicate some of the good things about the dog-sitting business; aspects I really enjoyed, like driving to different places, being out and about, meeting people, and being responsible for my own work. Also, the freedom the business at times could give you was another vital benefit. But I knew I definitely didn\u2019t want to do something as emotional as the pet-care business.<\/p>\n

There was also another important driving force: I lost my dog, Ruby, last year. And I knew that unless I changed my working environment<\/strong>, my goal<\/strong><\/em> of getting another dog would not be achievable.<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

Sometimes people get to junctions in their life where they realise they need to make a change in order to achieve something later in life. I was at that junction. I knew that eventually I couldn\u2019t continue working for someone else, because generally when you\u2019re working for somebody, or a company, you\u2019re restricted in many ways. I knew I couldn\u2019t take a dog to work with me. But if I became self-employed again, I could control my day-to-day routine. And if you want a dog, that\u2019s important.<\/p>\n

So I became an inventory clerk for letting agents and property owners.<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.13.1″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/barnsmokepictures.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Alex-and-Ruby.jpg” alt=”Zumbalicious” title_text=”Alex Doy with Ruby winner of Best Dog” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ disabled_on=”off|off|off” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-24px||||false|false” collapsed=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.13.1″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/barnsmokepictures.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/ADR-logo.png” alt=”Zumbalicious” title_text=”ADR logo” url=”http:\/\/adr-inventories.co.uk\/” url_new_window=”on” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.13.1″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”Raleway||||||||” global_colors_info=”{}”]

That\u2019s quite a change. Where did this idea come from? I get the feeling you didn\u2019t just wake up one morning and think, Ah! I\u2019ll be an inventory clerk!<\/strong><\/p>\n

I\u2019ve always been interested in property, but I knew I didn\u2019t want to become an estate agent, taking on full responsibility for the big picture \u2013 because that would put me in the same situation I was in when running my previous business. So I took a good, hard look at other roles in property.<\/p>\n

At the same time, I made a list of my skills and strengths, as well as my likes and dislikes. For example: I enjoy working alone and managing my own time and processes; and one of my biggest strengths is logistics.<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row disabled_on=”off|off|off” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-24px||||false|false” collapsed=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.13.1″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”Raleway||||||||” global_colors_info=”{}”]

When did you discover this strength?<\/strong><\/p>\n

In my childhood: I used to go to gymkhanas with my ponies. My mum was a great mother, but she was so busy with my siblings that she would turn up just in time to jump into the car to drive my pony and myself to the competitions. So if I wanted to be on time, I had to do all the necessary work beforehand.<\/p>\n

From the age of nine it was my responsibility to get the pony ready, and the equipment packed in the car\u2026 I had to make sure I\u2019d packed all the tack \u2013 because if you\u2019d just driven twenty miles to a field and you hadn\u2019t got the saddle loaded, your day was over. Consequently, I\u2019ve always had a checklist-type mind that naturally goes through the entire process of what I need.<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”Raleway||||||||” global_colors_info=”{}”]

What other personal strength of yours would you consider essential for an inventory clerk?<\/strong><\/p>\n

An eye for detail. And I\u2019m fortunate: attention to detail comes naturally to me. The second time I spotted this strength was when I was in hospitality. While working in a restaurant, I could spot a salt or pepper pot missing off a table in the furthest corner of the room.<\/p>\n

These things pop up in your life that make you realise your strengths. However, at an interview, when people ask me what my weaknesses are, I will also answer: Attention to detail. Because I believe in excellence \u2013 but I know it can get on some people\u2019s nerves.<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”Raleway||||||||” global_colors_info=”{}”]

But it\u2019s necessary, right? That\u2019s what makes you stand out from the crowd. Attention to detail is what sets you apart from another inventory clerk who would, for example, forget to note the number of carbon monoxide alarms on their report.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Exactly. And I\u2019m not saying I\u2019m perfect, obviously. But my attention to detail is not forced \u2013 it\u2019s easy; it comes naturally to me. I think if you don\u2019t have attention to detail and you want a role that needs it, it would be difficult and forced. And your enjoyment<\/em> in that respect would be dimmed.<\/p>\n

So I took my strengths \u2013 logistics, driving, working alone, attention to detail \u2013 and my keen interest in property, and put them together. And out came the role: inventory clerk. It just made sense. An inventory clerk is only responsible for a section of property; a fraction of the property-letting process. Which is exactly what I was looking for.<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″ custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||5px||false|false”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.14.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”Bad Script|700|||||||” text_text_color=”#025454″ text_font_size=”20px” text_letter_spacing=”2px” background_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” text_orientation=”center” custom_padding=”11px|0px|11px|0px|true|true” hover_enabled=”0″ border_width_all=”2px” border_color_all=”#409993″ border_style_all=”none” box_shadow_style=”preset6″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

The Key: Do Your Research.<\/b><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.13.1″ _module_preset=”default” collapsed=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.13.1″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/barnsmokepictures.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Next-Steps.jpg” alt=”Ally and students” title_text=”Next Steps” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”10px||0px||false|false” custom_padding=”||0px||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”|600|||||||” text_font_size=”14px” text_orientation=”right” custom_margin=”0px||||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Photo by Larissa Dietel<\/a> on Unsplash<\/a><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.13.1″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”Raleway||||||||” custom_margin=”0px||||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

Once you\u2019d decided to become an inventory clerk, what were your next steps?<\/strong><\/p>\n

The first thing that came into my head was: do I need a qualification to do this? And how easy is it to achieve? Whenever you\u2019re changing or starting a career, you need to do it to the right level or your business won\u2019t be successful.<\/strong><\/p>\n

After discovering that there is no \u2018Inventory Clerk\u2019 qualification, I thought: well, anyone can do it; you just need to have the knowledge. So I had to find out how to go about learning all there is to know.<\/p>\n

While researching a lot of different courses, I took into consideration the way I retain knowledge. (You know how you learn best, so this is one thing to look for: the manner in which the courses are being taught.) At my age, I\u2019m only able to retain a certain amount of information at one time, so I needed a course that provided all the necessary information but also offered ongoing support as things came up.<\/p>\n

I think anyone changing career, especially later in life, mustn\u2019t just assume they can go off and do a weekend course and it\u2019ll all come together; there will always be ongoing questions with anything you do.<\/p>\n

Once I\u2019d decided which course to do, I then had to purchase the necessary tools: software, the system I would need to use, etc. For guidance on this, I spoke with the course provider, as well as others in the industry.<\/p>\n

The Key: do your research.<\/strong> Before I parted with any money, I was put in touch with several people who were already doing inventory work, and I picked their brains. Also, as I\u2019d decided I wanted to be an independent<\/em> clerk, I had to ring round a few property agents to ask if they ever used or would use independent clerks, or if they had their own in-house team. I needed to get an idea of how much work there was, or if they could ever be swayed into using an independent clerk.<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ collapsed=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″ custom_margin=”0px||||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.13.1″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”Raleway||||||||” custom_margin=”0px||||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

How did you get your first client? <\/strong><\/p>\n

By accident! Before I even had a website, or had properly set myself up. All I had was the name: ADR Inventories<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n

I\u2019d previously rented out a property through a local estate agent, so I took a chance and asked him if I could possibly get access to some empty properties he may have \u2013 just to practise my inventory work. And even though my property is no longer with him, he graciously gave me the opportunity to go and do an inventory report.<\/p>\n

Unfortunately, I had an extremely limited time in which to do the report, as the tenant would be moving in rather quickly. In normal circumstances, I would have been very nervous. But as I wasn\u2019t expecting the agent to even look at the report (he already had an inventory clerk he used regularly), I simply went in and did the job to the best of my ability.<\/p>\n

I totally expected to keep the report to myself, so when the agent asked for it \u2013 and then decided to use it as the sole, official inventory report on that property! \u2013 I was elated.<\/p>\n

That\u2019s an incredible testimony to your attention to detail, as well as your conscientiousness. And also, a fabulous example of rising to the challenge. Unless you\u2019re willing to step out of your comfort zone and change direction, even slightly, you\u2019re not going to discover your full potential, right? <\/strong><\/p>\n

Right!<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ collapsed=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″ custom_margin=”0px||||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.13.1″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/barnsmokepictures.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Difficult-roads-quote.jpg” alt=”Ally and students” title_text=”Difficult roads quote” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”20px||0px||false|false” custom_padding=”||0px||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”|600|||||||” text_font_size=”14px” text_orientation=”right” custom_margin=”0px||||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Photo by Hello I’m Nik<\/a> on Unsplash<\/a><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.13.1″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”Raleway||||||||” custom_margin=”13px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Any last nuggets of advice you\u2019d like to share with anyone who hasn\u2019t known from a young age what they want to do \u2013 or anyone who hasn\u2019t yet achieved their goals \u2013 or for those not content with their career choices?<\/strong><\/p>\n

I would say: first of all, don\u2019t be negative<\/strong><\/em> about any of that. Accept that there will be many turns in the road \u2013 but they don\u2019t need to be disasters or negatives in your life. You just continually need to do whatever makes you happy.<\/p>\n

Re-evaluate<\/strong> your strengths and weaknesses. And as you get older and your wishes change, be prepared to sit and evaluate and decide to change course.<\/p>\n

They may not be dramatic changes but just things you can do without, and things you want in life. Those are what you pursue.<\/p>\n

And know that this is a positive<\/em> thing<\/strong>. So instead of sitting in a negative job, thinking, I\u2019m too old; or worrying about other people\u2019s opinions or approval or disapproval\u2026 know that you have lots<\/em> of other choices<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Take strengths and weaknesses out of every role, and think about what you\u2019ve learned<\/strong> along the way. None of this is negative.<\/p>\n

I think it\u2019s important to note that mine was a very mild-mannered change. I didn\u2019t go from being a street sweeper to a brain surgeon. I don\u2019t find what I\u2019ve done to be amazing. It\u2019s more a case of being prepared to reflect \u2013 and I\u2019m at a stage in life where I\u2019m ready to reflect on, and accept, what I like and don\u2019t like.<\/p>\n

What I\u2019ve done isn\u2019t earth-shattering. I\u2019m just continually searching for what gives me that empty head before bed. That\u2019s all I\u2019m ever trying to achieve.<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row disabled_on=”off|off|off” _builder_version=”4.14.0″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-27px||||false|false” collapsed=”on” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.13.1″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”Raleway||||||||” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Alex, thank you so much for your time. I\u2019m looking forward to coming back in a year\u2019s time to see how ADR Inventories has grown, and to find out if you\u2019re still enjoying life and being present \u2013 or if it\u2019s time to take another break and start a new venture. <\/strong><\/p>\n

I hope not! This role is taking me into my dotage.<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.14.0″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”15px||0px||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.14.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_divider _builder_version=”4.14.0″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”0px||||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ collapsed=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″ custom_margin=”0px||||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.14.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”Raleway||||||||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

Tweetable TAKEAWAYS<\/u><\/strong>:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Look after your mental state; take time out.<\/p>\n

Pursue your passion, follow your heart.<\/strong><\/p>\n

An empty head when you go to bed is all you ever need. :-)\u00a0<\/p>\n

You’re a human BEING, not a human ‘doing’. Be present. Stop. Breathe. Live!<\/strong><\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.14.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text content_tablet=”

<\/strong><\/p>\n

Just so you know\u2026<\/strong><\/p>\n

I don\u2019t receive any reward\/commission for promoting any of the businesses on my blog. Having bought something from each company, I just can\u2019t help but LOVE these brands and want the world to know about them.<\/p>” content_phone=”

<\/strong><\/p>\n

<\/strong><\/p>\n

Just so you know\u2026<\/strong><\/p>\n

I don\u2019t receive any reward\/commission for promoting any of the businesses on my blog. Having bought something from each company, I just can\u2019t help but LOVE these brands and want the world to know about them.<\/p>” content_last_edited=”off|tablet” _builder_version=”4.14.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”Raleway||||||||” custom_margin=”0px||||false|false” custom_margin_tablet=”20px||||false|false” custom_margin_phone=”20px||||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”on|phone” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Just so you know\u2026<\/strong><\/p>\n

I don\u2019t receive any reward or commission for promoting any of the people or businesses on my blog. I just want to inspire & motivate as many people as possible to fulfil their purpose & potential.<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”Raleway||||||||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

\u00a0If any other key points stood out for you, or you just want to let me know what you thought about this interview, feel free to comment<\/strong> <\/a>below.<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.14.0″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”15px||0px||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.14.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_divider _builder_version=”4.14.0″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”0px||||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ collapsed=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″ custom_margin=”0px||||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||||false|false”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.14.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”Raleway||||||||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]

NEXT MONTH <\/strong>on The Hopeaholic blog. . . <\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

A 53-year-old man who’s only just begun to pursue his Big Dream.<\/p>\n

Inspiration, motivation, hope. You’ll find it all here.<\/p>\n

If you subscribe<\/a><\/strong> to my monthly news blurb (it\u2019s brief, honest!) you’ll be in the know. \"wink\"

Did you enjoy my blog? Please Share the Sunshine. :-)<\/span><\/h2>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”2_5″ _builder_version=”4.9.10″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_social_media_follow icon_color=”#161616″ _builder_version=”4.13.1″ _module_preset=”default” text_orientation=”left” custom_margin=”0px||0px||true|false” custom_margin_tablet=”-135px|0px||0px|false|false” custom_margin_phone=”-135px||||false|false” custom_margin_last_edited=”off|desktop” custom_padding=”0px||0px||true|false” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_social_media_follow_network social_network=”facebook” url=”https:\/\/facebook.com\/vanessalstevenson92\/” _builder_version=”4.13.1″ _module_preset=”default” background_enable_color=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” follow_button=”off” url_new_window=”on”]facebook[\/et_pb_social_media_follow_network][et_pb_social_media_follow_network social_network=”twitter” url=”https:\/\/twitter.com\/thehopeaholic\/” _builder_version=”4.13.1″ _module_preset=”default” background_enable_color=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” follow_button=”off” url_new_window=”on”]twitter[\/et_pb_social_media_follow_network][et_pb_social_media_follow_network social_network=”instagram” url=”https:\/\/instagram.com\/thehopeaholic\/” _builder_version=”4.13.1″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#ea2c59″ background_enable_color=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” follow_button=”off” url_new_window=”on”]instagram[\/et_pb_social_media_follow_network][\/et_pb_social_media_follow][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]\n\n\n\n\n\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Photo by Michiel Annaert on UnsplashAlex Doy is a formidable human being. Having been raised on a farm in Lincolnshire, UK, Alex is no stranger to hard work. This woman\u2019s got grit \u2013 tons of it.\u00a0From the age of nine she was a logistics manager with a checklist a mile long. By the time she […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":3539,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"1080","_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[33,47,35,45,43,36,37,41,42,105],"tags":[30,73,69,31],"class_list":["post-3529","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-entrepreneur","category-hope","category-inspiration","category-interview","category-mental-health","category-motivation","category-self-employment","category-start-up","category-true-stories","category-uplifting","tag-entrepreneur","tag-inspiring-women","tag-mental-health-awareness","tag-startup"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/barnsmokepictures.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3529","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/barnsmokepictures.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/barnsmokepictures.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/barnsmokepictures.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/barnsmokepictures.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=3529"}],"version-history":[{"count":60,"href":"https:\/\/barnsmokepictures.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3529\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":3618,"href":"https:\/\/barnsmokepictures.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3529\/revisions\/3618"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/barnsmokepictures.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/3539"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/barnsmokepictures.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=3529"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/barnsmokepictures.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=3529"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/barnsmokepictures.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=3529"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}