Embracing Learning Later in Life: Upskilling in your 40s and Beyond
- pauseandempower
- Aug 10
- 4 min read
When you hear “International Youth Day”—which brightens up the calendar every 12 August—most people picture teens, TikTokers, and twenty-somethings hustling through the classrooms of life. But let’s flip the script! This dynamic day had me pondering a quirky truth: if youth celebrates learning as an adventure, shouldn’t we all get a ticket? Especially those of us whose inner child occasionally pops out amid career chaos and mortgage meetings.
Learning Isn’t Reserved for the Young (Thank Goodness!)
Upskilling after 40 isn’t just trending—it’s essential. The good news? You have all the “grown-up superpowers” youth sometimes (often) lack: resilience, emotional intelligence, and a well-developed appreciation for a decent cup of tea.
UK data reveals that more adults than ever are enrolling in training courses, with dedicated institutions like Havering Adult College offering everything from coding and accounting to creative arts and British Sign Language. Learning isn’t a one-size-fits-all jumper; whether you dream of becoming a master baker or a spreadsheet sorcerer, there’s a classroom (physical or virtual!) waiting for you.
Why Learn Now? It’s all About Lifelong Growth
According to UNESCO, lifelong learning helps us adapt to change and flourish across every stage of life. In fact, embracing adult education can boost your employability, confidence, and sense of purpose.
Liggy Webb—quirky queen of professional reinvention—reminds us that lifelong learning isn’t just about absorbing facts; it’s about curiosity, adaptability, and embracing uncertainty as a springboard for excitement. Webb urges us to see learning as fun and freeing, even amid “midlife muddles.”
And in the workplace, May’s annual “Learning at Work Week” highlights how connecting with others during training can supercharge motivation and combat barriers. The 2025 UK theme, “Get Connected,” is all about finding your tribe through shared growth and creativity.
Aside from the joy of proving wrong anyone who thinks you’re “set in your ways,” upskilling after 40 has real-world benefits:
Career Security – The workplace is evolving faster than ever. Upskilling keeps you adaptable in the face of automation, AI, and changing industries.
Personal Growth – Learning something new can re-ignite a sense of curiosity and creativity you didn’t even know you’d lost.Confidence Boost – There’s something empowering about mastering a new skill — whether it’s Excel pivot tables or Italian cooking.
Expanded Networks – Classes, workshops, and online courses connect you to new people who share your interests.
Brain Health – Studies show learning keeps the mind active and can help reduce cognitive decline.
Top Tips for Upskilling in Your 40s and Beyond
So, how do you slalom past self-doubt and dive into a new learning adventure?
Do a Skills Safari: Reflect on your transferable skills—teamwork, leadership, critical thinking—and pinpoint what excites you most.
Map the Landscape: Research growth industries (digital, healthcare, education, management) where life experience is valued.
Mix and Match Learning Modes: Explore online courses, in-person workshops, or part-time study. Institutions like Havering Adult College and resources like FutureLearn cater to all lifestyles.
Start Small, Dream Big: Dip your toes into free tasters or webinars, they are aplenty if you look around.
Find Your Support Crew: Connect with peer learners, mentors, and online communities.
Celebrate Your Wins (and Your Wobbles): Shifting careers or skills after 40 is daring and delightful—document your journey and cheer yourself at every milestone.
The Real Perks: Beyond the CV
Future-Proofing: Adaptability and up-to-date skills help keep your career buoyant, even when the workplace tides change.
New Opportunities: Learning can unlock doors to second (or third!) careers, often more meaningful and rewarding than your first.
Wellbeing: Adult learning is linked to increased happiness, resilience, and masterful sandwich-making.
Community Connection: Learning later isn’t just “me” time; it’s “we” time, enriching families and neighbourhoods with fresh energy and ideas.
Rediscover Your Inner Youth: Each skill learnt is a reminder that curiosity isn’t age-limited—run with it!
Roadblocks—And How to Dodge Them
Sure, grown-ups face grown-up problems: time pressures, family commitments, sleep (or the lack thereof). But adult learners are crafty. Solutions include:
Bite-Size Learning: Micro-courses and short workshops fit between work meetings and supper prep.
Remote Learning: Online platforms offer flexibility and anonymity, ideal for bashful beginners.
Peer Power: Find study buddies to share triumphs and troubleshoot.
But… Isn’t It Harder Now?
Yes and no. True, you might not have the sponge-like memory of a teenager (and you may need more coffee to get through an evening webinar), but adults have some serious advantages:
Life Experience: You bring context, perspective, and problem-solving skills that younger learners often don’t.
Purpose-Driven Learning: You choose what matters to you, making you more motivated and focused.
Better Self-Awareness: You know how you learn best, whether that’s through podcasts, practical workshops, or online videos.
Celebrate Your Journey!
By embracing learning after 40, you’re not just keeping up—you’re standing out. International Youth Day may centre on young people, but lifelong learning isn’t reserved for any age group. It’s the ultimate plot twist: wisdom, whimsy, and fresh knowledge all packed into the “prime years.”
So, break the mould. Sign up for that course. Connect with fellow learners. Wear your “student” badge with pride—and a dash of the irrepressible spirit of youth!
Thinking About a Big Change—Career or Life?
Are you contemplating a new chapter, a career switch, or simply craving some fresh direction in life? If so, why not reach out? I’d love to hear your story. Let’s connect for a FREE 30-minute chat—no strings attached! Together, we’ll explore whether coaching is the right step for you and how it could help move you forward with confidence. Visit my website or dm through LinkedIN to book your FREE session and take the first exciting step towards shaping your future.
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