I'm 87 and work full time. I was rejected from hundreds of companies in my 80s and have a low-paying job, but I love the work.
## 87 Years Young, Still Working Full-Time, and Loving It: My Story of Resilience
They say age is just a number, and at 87 years old, I’m living proof. While many of my peers are enjoying well-deserved retirements, I’m clocking in full-time, a smile on my face, ready to tackle the day. My journey to this point hasn’t been easy, filled with setbacks, rejections, and a healthy dose of societal bias. But here I am, thriving in a job I love, and I want to share my story with you.
For years, retirement seemed like the natural progression. I dutifully saved, meticulously planned, and envisioned a life of leisurely pursuits. However, as the years marched on, I found myself increasingly restless. The quiet life, while appealing on paper, wasn't for me. I craved connection, purpose, and the feeling of contributing something meaningful.
So, in my early 80s, I decided to re-enter the workforce. I dusted off my resume, highlighting decades of experience in [mention your general field, e.g., customer service, bookkeeping, administration]. I was confident, brimming with knowledge, and eager to learn new skills.
The Harsh Reality of Ageism:
My optimism, however, quickly met a harsh dose of reality. The job market, I discovered, wasn't exactly welcoming to octogenarians. Rejection letters piled up. Phone interviews were few and far between. In-person interviews were even rarer.
I applied for hundreds of positions, meticulously tailoring each application to the specific requirements of the role. But the consistent response was silence, or worse, a polite but firm "we've decided to pursue other candidates."
The sting of rejection was undeniable. It became clear that my age was a major, if unspoken, barrier. Despite my qualifications and eagerness, many employers saw me as too old, too slow, and too technologically inept to contribute effectively.
Ageism is a very real issue in the modern workforce. Employers often harbor unfounded assumptions about older workers, including:
Slower Learning: This is a myth! Older adults may learn differently than younger individuals, but they are perfectly capable of acquiring new skills and adapting to new technologies.
Technological Incompetence: While some older adults may require some training, many are incredibly tech-savvy, especially those who have embraced technology throughout their lives.
Health Concerns and Attendance Issues: While health concerns can arise at any age, assuming all older workers are prone to illness and absenteeism is a gross generalization.
Lack of Energy and Motivation: This is perhaps the most harmful stereotype. Many older workers possess a strong work ethic, unwavering dedication, and a genuine passion for contributing.
Persistence Pays Off (Eventually):
Despite the repeated rejections, I refused to give up. I knew I had value to offer. I spent time:
Networking: I reached out to former colleagues, attended industry events, and made connections online.
Upskilling: I enrolled in online courses to enhance my technical skills and stay current with industry trends.
Reframing My Resume: I focused on quantifiable achievements and transferable skills, minimizing emphasis on my age.
Practicing My Interview Skills: I worked with a career coach to refine my interview techniques and address potential concerns about my age.
Finally, after what felt like an eternity, I landed a job at [mention your current company or general type of business, e.g., a local bookstore, a community center, a small accounting firm]. The pay is not what I used to make, and frankly, it's much less than I deserve considering my experience. But the work itself is fulfilling.
Why I Love My "Low-Paying" Job:
I currently work as a [mention your job title, e.g., cashier, administrative assistant, bookkeeper]. It's not glamorous, and it doesn't come with a corner office, but it gives me:
Purpose and Structure: The daily routine keeps me active, engaged, and mentally stimulated.
Social Interaction: I enjoy interacting with colleagues and customers, building relationships, and feeling connected to the community.
A Sense of Accomplishment: Even the smallest tasks, when completed well, contribute to the overall success of the business and give me a sense of pride.
A Reason to Get Up in the Morning: I wake up each day with a sense of anticipation, eager to learn something new, help someone out, and make a difference.
My Advice for Older Adults Seeking Employment:
If you're an older adult looking to re-enter the workforce, or struggling to find employment due to ageism, here's my advice:
Don't Give Up: Persistence is key. The job search process can be discouraging, but don't let rejections deter you from pursuing your goals.
Highlight Your Strengths: Focus on your experience, skills, and accomplishments. Emphasize your adaptability, reliability, and strong work ethic.
Embrace Technology: Become proficient in the technologies relevant to your industry. Demonstrate your willingness to learn and adapt to new systems.
Network Actively: Connect with people in your field, attend industry events, and leverage online platforms to build relationships and expand your network.
Be Confident and Positive: Project a positive attitude and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the work. Let employers see your passion and dedication.
Know Your Worth: Understand the value you bring to the table and don't be afraid to advocate for yourself.
The Future of Age in the Workforce:
I hope my story inspires other older adults to pursue their career goals, regardless of their age. The workforce needs the experience, wisdom, and dedication that older workers bring. We must challenge ageist stereotypes and create a more inclusive and equitable environment for workers of all ages.
It's time to recognize that age is not a limitation, but an asset. We have a lifetime of knowledge, skills, and experiences to share. And with a little perseverance, we can all find meaningful and fulfilling work, regardless of our age.
So, the next time you see an older worker, remember my story. Remember that we are valuable contributors to society, and we deserve the opportunity to share our gifts with the world. And who knows, maybe you'll be inspired to break down your own age-related barriers and pursue your passions, no matter your age. After all, it's never too late to start.
What are your thoughts on ageism in the workplace? Share your experiences and advice in the comments below!
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