Why are women over 50 coming home to work?
This article is part one of a series of three aimed at discovering why working women over 50 are transitioning from traditional jobs to working from home.
Women made up more than 49% of the work force during a poll reported in 2008. Yet, today more than ever many women state that they are tired of their current job. If you are a working woman over the age of 50 how do you feel about the job you currently hold?
We discovered by interviewing many women that the top reasons women over the age of 50 are tired of their jobs boils down to just three; boring jobs, negative co-workers and lack of personal time. The statistics were very different for younger women who reported low wages, difficult supervisors and missing family events as the main reasons for hating their jobs.
Top 3 reasons for being tired of job
For women over 50 the top 3 reasons they are tired of their jobs boiled down to their priorities in their unique circumstances and life. With no small children at home a woman over 50 is looking to maintain her lifestyle, seriously get ready for those golden years of retirement and fulfill her life’s purpose. Let’s take a look into those top three reasons in detail.
1 – Boring job: after being the CEO of her home for years, multi-tasking took on a whole new meaning. With baby on her hip, a mop in one hand and the phone on the other shoulder talking with a friend was a daily occurrence. However, answering phones and taking messages hardly makes for a fulfilling day compared to her role at home, right? If you were to look at a corporate secretary job description would she feel fulfilled taking messages answering the phone all day long? I sincerely doubt it. If comparing a supervisor's role at the same company, could you compare the management of a home to babysitting snooty-nosed, lazy adults who could care less if they were there or not? All they care about is collecting their check and punching the clock. Their concern is not to give it their all for serving others, oh no…that is someone elses job. Is this all there is to life?
2 – Negative co-workers: I remember this one all too well. My co-workers didn't want to help customers, took more breaks than they were supposed to and were paid the same salary as I was while my production out performed theirs by 3:1. Regardless of job performance and attitude their paycheck remained constant with mine.
When on coffee breaks the stress intensified due to gossip around the water-cooler instead of being a time of relaxation and refreshment. Why on Earth do we put up with such conditions? Oh yes, that’s right we need to earn a living to feed those kids we have in daycare or pay the mortgage for the home we are living in. Isn’t there a better solution?
3 – Lack of personal time: Vacation time around the bank was a premium piece of real estate. Each January we anxiously awaited our turn, allotted by seniority to choose our two weeks paid vacation days. I don’t know about you but I struggled to figure out how my whole year would look in January just to be able to “lock in” my valued time off.
That was just the beginning. What about when my kids were sick, my supervisor could have cared less. She had a department to run and if I weren’t present who would do my duties, serve my customers or complete the daily reports. I remember one specific time during my last days at the bank; this one incident was my wake up call.
My little one year old was running a very high fever. Because I felt guilty and was railroaded into coming into work the sitter had to call me to report her condition was worsening. I called our doctor and he asked me to immediately bring her in. When I requested time off to take my very ill daughter in for her appointment I was denied. My supervisor told me to have her daycare provider take her in. I’ll leave the story at…I, her mother took her to the appointment and within one week handed in my resignation.
As working women over 50 we no longer have to worry about our children in daycare…unless, we are raising our grandchildren, and then it resurfaces and once again becomes an issue. For the majority of us though it is more an issue of being able to spend quality time with our grandchildren when we want to not when some big corporation tells us we can.
After all haven’t we earned the right to our time? Aren’t we at the age when we are supposed to begin enjoying life to the full? Is this the way it is suppose to be?
After recognizing the top three reasons why women over 50 are tired of their jobs it’s time to do something more about it, don’t you think?
Join us next week as we look into possible solutions to being tired of our jobs. It’s time working women over 50 step up to the plate and put to use those life experiences, embrace our uniqueness and help others to do the same.
If you enjoyed this article and found it useful or thought provoking please share with others. Leave your comments below, we love hearing your thoughts on the matter.
Carla Gardiner is known as “THE Fiery Grandma” because she found new energy, endurance and youth. Her passion and purpose lies with baby boomer trends, the people she works with daily; aging men, women, moms, dads, grandmas and grandpas who want to feel better, have more energy and have fun like they did when they were twenty-something. Join her for more energy, fun and profits.
"Very well put. I've been with a health and nutrition company for over 26 years and I understand exactly what you are going through. I shiver to think what my health might be today at age 68 had I not stuck to my guns as far as practicing what I preach. Yes, I fall off the wagon regularly but my daily routine life reflects taking care of my health. That way I can keep up (somewhat) with my 7 grandchildren. You keep it up, Carla". 
"For most people the thought of venturing out there in pursuit of your dreams, in a place outside of your comfort zones is just what stops them. But I could sense your excitement not resentment in going against the competition. In planting your stake and truly making a difference in the clients experience. That's ultimately what matters, the rest just falls so easily into place. Thanks for that reminder"! 
Carla, I’ve got to say that I LOVE your focus on the joys and challenges facing women over 50. I’m definitely in that camp! I’ve been inspired by your candor, practical ideas, and refreshing determination to joyfully tackle life. The hours we’ve spent on the phone, in person, and through social media have enriched my life immeasurably. YOU are one Fiery Grandma, and I love your style! 
I have known Carla Gardiner for 6+ years. We met at a business training for bring business online. She is a business women at heart and willing to do the hard things to make the results show up. I have watched her run a business, work a job and take care of her family. She is a go getter when it comes to putting in the work to build her business to the level of being able to enjoy her grand kids.
She is the example that age is not a limit it is a tool for sharing knowledge to those she empowers to use their own skills and talents. Excuses are fuel to push her to learn and apply. I have seen her scared to death about implementing new technology and rock it out despite the learning curve.
I love watching you grow into your greatness Carla! Don’t slow down. 
"Carla, you are a model for me to follow. I love your site. And, I like what you have to say - very kind, very gracious. I have to say though that nothing in my life has ever been crystal clear". 
"I've known Carla for 5+ years and can tell you that she has lived every bit of this and more. We shared tears and laughs and hard work....you will enjoy getting to know Carla."
all those feelings…nausa before work, the closer I get the sicker I become, walking around angry all the time, treating family like crap because im unhappy…wow…I thought there was something wrong with me!! I too watch others screw off as I work with no increase in pay in 3 yrs, but need my paycheck because im raising my granddaughters, husband lost his retirement due to poor money management by his union..so at 55 he had to start over. we moved south to enjoy the beach..cant even do that cause all we do is work work work..so tired, and feel there is no end to the anger. what can we do???
I feel your pain Yvonne and I’ve been there done that. It would be an honor to set up a time to chat, to get to know your hopes, your dreams and see if we can put together a plan for you and your hubby. Would you be open to that? If so, go to my home page at http://CarlaJGardiner.com and in the lower right corner a pop up will appear. Enter your information and I’ll contact you as soon as possible. Don’t give up, there is hope out there I know…I’m living proof.
Great article Carla. Totally agree with you on these 3 points, and I’m also going to guess a 4th & very important reason sits under the “life with meaning” umbrella.
Coming home to work can give life more meaning. Speaking from a man’s perspective, it’s very gratifying knowing that you are truly able helping others, and not being pushed around by corporate rules. Perhaps, when we reach 50, we’re able to put life in perspective and try give it more meaning.
I can’t think of a better opportunity than to come home and give create a job of meaning and value for yourself.
Thank you Gary. I love how you brought out a “life of meaning”. You know, it was years before I wondered if there wasn’t more to life than the 9 to 5 rat race. Now I watch as my neighbors race off each morning, scowls on their faces just to make a dollar. It’s very sad, but each of us makes his or her own choice. I totally agree with you that the best opportunity is one taken…thanks for sharing, Gary.
Thank you Gary. I appreciate a man’s perspective, especially one who is successfully working from home for himself, like you. I agree that with age comes a different perspective, definitely one where we take into account a deeper purpose in life.
I agree with all your three reasons Carla, and the last one for me is crucial, ,it is amazing to have time for your priorities in life. Thanks for your post!
Yes, Meire priorities are the most important in our lives because they are different for each of us. Isn’t it great that we now can work, build our business and keep our priorities in order?
Thank you Meire. I work on my priorities daily. Most days I keep them in order, but I’m not perfect. Balance is key to long term success.
You totally nailed those top three reasons, that’s for sure! I don’t know anyone on the planet that can’t relate to those 🙂 The problem is that a lot of folks don’t like those conditions, but don’t know what to do about it — that’s why it’s so great that you’re here to lead the way 🙂
You totally nailed those top three reasons, that’s for sure! I don’t know anyone on the planet that can’t relate to those 🙂 The problem is that a lot of folks don’t like those conditions, but don’t know what to do about it — that’s why it’s so great that you’re here to lead the way 🙂
Thank you Robin and “thanks” to you I am leading the way for those women over 50 who want to start a direct selling business using social media to make more money, get more referrals and build a bigger team faster. When they work with me they cut their learning curve in half.
Great article, Carla! I agree with these reasons at any age, not just over 50. However, I noticed that you are able to bring around you people that will embrace your positivity, if you are positive and don’t give in (most of the time).
You are so right, Delia. It takes time and effort to rid ourselves of the negativity that seems to run rampant in many of our lives. Being a positive influence can change lives for the better.
Very true Delia. That’s why it’s important to build yourself up with positive people. That way the negative Nelly’s don’t pull you down so far that you can’t be pulled right back up!
Great article! I think the reasons you bring up for being bored of your job are good for people of all ages! Negativity is definitely a problem that makes no one very comfortable to stick around.. Thanks for the article:)
Thank you Daniele. Now that you mention it, I do remember being in my 30’s and bored out of my mind. I’d sit in my office suppose to be working and instead I was daydreaming about traveling, spending time with my family and meeting new friends around the world….wow, why didn’t I recognize that desire sooner? Hopefully, this will help wake others up sooner so they can start building their dream life, now!
Thank you Daniele for bringing up the point that people of all ages deal with the same issues at work including negativity. I sure appreciate you and Tom for taking time out of your busy schedules to read and share my articles.
Since I’m over 50, I do agree with you Carla , it’s time working women over 50 step up to the plate and put to use those life experiences, embrace our uniqueness and help others to do the same, because that is exactly what I’m doing! 🙂
Thank you Norma. It is sad to watch other women over 50 who choose to give up and settle. It sure doesn’t have to be that way. But, I’ve found that not everyone has it in them to fight as hard as we must to make those changes so we can enjoy our golden years and share our gifts with others.
Indeed you are Norma. The value you provide to other business women over 50 like me is invaluable. Thank you for leading the way, helping us with blogging tips, business tips and more.
Negativity is a sure fire way to deplete even the most motivated person.
Yvonne Brown
That’s so true, Yvonne. Sometimes we simply have to put our big girl panties on, ignore the naysayers and choose to either make a difference where we are or leave to work from home and design our lives the way we want to. Thanks for stopping by and commenting.
Very true Yvonne. All a girl can do is keep her chin up, put one foot in front of the other and march on. When the determination is strong enough eventually the objectors become the cheerleaders. But, it sure takes time and lots of effort.
This is good reasons for sure! At one point we can’t be surrounded with negative people. We need positive all the time. And working from home is the best to do.
It sure is Carele. Thanks for taking time out of your busy schedule to stop by and share.
All great reasons to work from home Carla. Why give your best to “the man” if “he” doesn’t reciprocate?
You’ve got that right Meryl. I always tell my husband, “Honey, I am now unemployable”. I’ve not had a boss in so long that I doubt I could take orders or direction from some young graduate who doesn’t know beans about the subject anyway…that’s why I’ve redefining success after 50…because I can!
Burn out was my reason for leaving my job as Customer Service Manager. It was a very demanding, fast paced job I used to love & feel exhilarated about. The demands kept increasing, there weren’t enough hours to do it all so I kept taking more home to work on, after 9-10 hours at the office and a 90 min commute each way.
I kept working faster, harder, longer, with less staff, more expectations, and measly pay raises when we were having record sales, the best customer satisfaction ever, and the highest bonuses for the bosses ever too. Where is the justice??
I got to the point that I couldn’t sleep, was nauseated before work each day, exhausted, and MAD ALL THE TIME.
So, i retired early. I had to “save my soul” because I had thoughts of hatred & resentment all the time.
I needed to reclaim me, my life, my marriage, my family, but mainly Me.
Good for you Yvonne. I can relate to what you went through as my life used to look the same way. It’s amazing how we working women over 50 push ourselves to near exhaustion and then do it again and again. I’m glad to hear you stopped, regrouped and took control over your life. Kudos to you and timely for your family.
Great article, Carla! Sometimes I think women are just all “tasked out” by this time…so many years just multi-tasking non-stop. We finally have an opportunity to gear down and enjoy our kids, families, jobs. Sometimes…lol!
You are so right, Pam. That is exactly how I got so sick in the first place. Non-stop go go go…work, running kids to after school sports, hubby’s games and then there’s being a mom and wife to boot. Pack that into about 12 years and the body has to give somehow at some time. Disease, depression and more are the results of not paying attention to ourselves. I hope younger women will listen up and take action sooner to avoid going through what I went through.
This post brought back all the feelings I had when employed in the corporate world…..not all good either….. I remember sneaking my daughter in to the office and allowing her to sleep under my desk when she didnt’ feel well. Some years after that all I remember is being exhausted with a 150 mile round trip commute, being at my desk at 7:30AM, leaving at 6PM or later. No time for my husband, my health, my grandchildren….I really grew to resent the company…but needed the paycheck. SO GLAD TO BE DONE WITH THAT! Thank you, Carla.
Wow, Rachel…sharing your thoughts and feelings about your job, the good and the bad really dug up some of my own…I thought they were gone, but, nope they are still there. I remember the day I resigned and walked out of the bank, too. I was so resentful I wanted to bomb the place. Now, isn’t that awful? We give our jobs the best part of every day and yet what is it all for? Working from home beats a job and boss any old day. I’m happy to hear you’ve broken the chains and are enjoying your life, working from home Rachel.
Great article Carla! For me it can be summed up in one word, ‘freedom’! Mostly freedom to spend as much time as I can while the kiddos are growing and glowing! In a few short years they will be off beginning their solo journey so NOW is important for me to be available 100%…after that we will see! Thanks for sharing your wisdom!
Exactly my point, Denny. You are a glowing example of a grandma raising her grandchildren. Can you even imagine working a corporate job and raising them? You are very involved with your granddaughter’s activities and those memories will be with her forever. Good job on the nurturing and thanks for sharing your reason for working from home.
Excellent article, Carla! All the reasons you’ve listed are why I am now working from home. If I may, I’d like to add another one…younger co-workers think that we are “over the hill” and should let someone younger fill the position! I’ve experienced that personally. Hats off for telling it like it is!
You are so right, Alexandra. Thanks for sharing yet one more reason why we working women over 50 are tired of our jobs. I’m thankful I’ve been working from home for the last 8 years. I cringe even thinking of returning to a job.