They say you are never too old to learn and it is equally true that you are never too old to change.

Many people in Third Age decide they would like a complete change of career, and why not?

By this time in their lives they may have had 30 or 40 years in the same job or career. Often it is an interest or pastime which provokes the change and makes a whole new use and income out of the skills learned along the way coupled with a desire to change.

For one woman a holiday in France gave her the inspiration to research and make a great success of becoming a wedding organiser for people who wanted to marry in the country. The same could work for any country if you have the knowledge, or the ability to learn about what is required. Working on 10 per cent of the overall wedding cost fee she earned £1,000 on her first project which spurred her on to eventually swapping her previous job as a conference organiser for her own new business.

At 55 years of age a clerk tired of his job of 30 years. He had always wanted to teach Mathematics. Armed with the desire to succeed and much hard work, he qualified and spent nine happy years teaching and probably wondering why he hadn’t done it years ago. There is great demand in the teaching profession at the moment for Third Age newcomers. You are never too old to learn, or obviously to teach.

Many practically qualified people in heavier industries such as engineering, building or metal working are also finding satisfaction at turning their skills to teaching. The hands on side may have become a little too much in Third Age, and, not surprisingly, the financial rewards for imparting skills are often far greater than for using them.

A logistics manager had a passion for making jams and chutneys but was loathe to give up her financial security. Using enterprise and initiative she turned the pastime into a five until nine evening job and eventually started making her first sales. She retains her day job, but, if success comes your way, the choice is always there.

Volunteer work is often the path to a change of career. You may choose to work unpaid for a charity until a paid position comes along. If you already know the job and have proved your loyalty in a volunteer’s role you should be the natural choice.

Current economic downturns have forced decisions on many people. Employed have become self employed and vice versa. I know a journalist who became a bin man and then in turn became a TV presenter!

Much has to do with attitude and in Third Age we have hopefully developed a maturity and common sense which tells us where to go. Look around, you’ll be surprised at what some people used to do or be. A change is as good as a rest and could be the making of your future in Third Age.

Graham Smith for Third Age.