Starting a Career at 28 or 29: Is It Too Late?
Is it too late to start a career at 28 or 29, especially in a regular job or even in the media field? The Psalmist David resonate with these sentiments, expressing concern over the brevity of human life: 'The years of our life are seventy or even by reason of strength eighty, yet their span is but toil and trouble; they are soon gone, and we fly away' (Psalm 90:10 NASB).
According to this, there are only 40 to 50 years of productive life to complete one’s career. However, as time marches on, we often find ourselves tweaking and adjusting in an attempt to squeeze every last moment. Time doesn’t stand still, and if we are not careful, it will pass us by. So, let's move, talk to the Lord, walk with the Lord, and thank Him for the help and guidance He provides.
God, through His prophet Jeremiah, encourages us with the message, 'I alone know the plans I have for you plans to bring you prosperity and not disaster plans to bring about the future you hope for. Then you will call to me. You will come and pray to me and I will answer you. You will seek me and you will find me because you will seek me with all your heart' (Jeremiah 29:11-13 GNB).
Don’t be overly worried about anything; it’s important to focus on your prayers and ask God for what you need. Always focus on your request with a thankful heart. And God’s peace, which is far beyond human understanding, will keep your heart and mind safe in union with Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:6-7).
The Serenity Prayer is also a powerful reminder: 'Lord, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.' If you have control over something, do it! If not, give it over to the Lord.
Consider this verse from 1 John, 'This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. If we know that he hears us, we also know that we have already asked him for what we needed' (1 John 5:14-15, italics added by me).
The apostle Paul, however, provides a resounding affirmation: 'I can do all things through him who gives me strength' (Philippians 4:13). This spiritual strength must be leveraged, but the willingness to learn and adapt remains the key to success.
In the United States, it is quite common for people to have an average of six different careers in their lifetime. Jobs change frequently, and each new job presents a unique learning opportunity. Age, in many respects, is not a limiting factor for starting something new. Learning what you don't like is part of the process, so the ultimate goal is to find what suits you and what you can do well. As long as you are willing to learn and adapt, you can start afresh at any age.
Therefore, while 28 or 29 might seem a little old to some, it is important to remember that it is never too late to start a new career. Embrace the process of learning, stay open to new opportunities, and seek God's guidance in your path. With the right mindset and an unwavering commitment to personal growth, you can achieve success and fulfillment in any career.