Health
Midlife Career Changes, Surveillance & Kin-Keeping
Health Points
- More adults in their 40s are going back to school for career growth and stability.
- Midlife job changes offer opportunity but also bring new challenges, like managing family and finances.
- The holiday season often means added emotional labor for family caregivers.
Many professionals in their 40s are rediscovering the classroom, driven by layoffs, pay freezes, and the rise of artificial intelligence. Federal data shows around a million people in this age group are currently enrolled in higher education, whether to shift careers or boost their qualifications.
This journey isn’t easy. Balancing work, family, and schooling can create extra pressures, especially with new student debt for some. Career experts recommend focusing on what inspires you now and using your network for support.
Your Digital Privacy at Work
Workplace surveillance is on the rise, with growing technology that lets employers monitor your digital activity. This can include tracking your location or reading messages on company-issued devices.
To protect your privacy, avoid conducting personal business or job searches using work technology. Use encrypted apps on your own phone, and remember: if you’d cringe reading it in court, don’t type it at work.
Family Health: The Unsung Kin Keeper
The holidays bring joy but also extra tasks for those who keep families connected, often known as “kin keepers.” This behind-the-scenes role can be rewarding but may lead to burnout if expectations aren’t discussed openly.
If kin-keeping leaves you feeling overwhelmed, speak up and share the load with your loved ones. Not the designated kin keeper? A simple “thank you” for their efforts means more than you might expect.
Ready to nurture your well-being this season? Lean into your strengths, reach out for support, and don’t forget self-care as you navigate work and family responsibilities.
