(Updated Oct 31, 2024)

When you’re ready to explore if a career shift is right for you, give these three books a read.

They all are well-researched and provide practical tips as well as uplifting studies and stories to highlight how amazing a career shift can be once we’re on the other side of it.

BONUS! Find two additional books after these three! One that’s more practical and the other more philosophical.

1. “From Strength To Strength” by Arthur C. Brooks

Without any hesitation, this is THE book I recommend to people in the second half of their career. It absolutely changed my perspective on my own career frustrations and gave me hope for finding a better fit. It actually makes the case that shifting our careers for the second half is a necessity, not just an interesting option to try. Read my in-depth review here for additional insights.

2. “Wisdom @ Work” by Chip Conley

Conley founded the Modern Elder Academy after running several other businesses and shows us in this book how different generations can work well together. Specifically, he shows the reader how their wisdom can be honed to help their career find a second gear as well as help others in theirs. Read my in-depth review here for additional insights.

3. “Working Identity” by Herminia Ibarra

World-renown researcher gives us six strategies for reinventing our careers. Big focus on exploring many options through action, as opposed to just analysis. Read my in-depth review here for additional insights.

Bonus Books!

These two books are very different from each other and from the ones above. One is very practical – tons of career exercises – and the other very philosophical. Pick the ones that speak to you!

“Getting Unstuck” by Timothy Butler

Fantastic book for getting down to brass tacks – what job should you explore next? As a psychologist, Harvard professor and career counselor, the author has developed great exercises and insights for identifying our natural interests and tendencies, especially as they relate to career paths. Read my in-depth review here for additional insights.

“Let Your Life Speak” by Parker J. Palmer

Such a tiny little book with big beautiful ideas. Palmer has been a teacher, academic, pastor, speaker and uses his own experience of feeling directionless to inspire others. This collection of his essays and talks flows so well and is so inspiring. Read my in-depth review here for additional insights.

So that’s my take on the top three books for those considering a career pivot. A change in your career direction isn’t easy, but these books can help you get it done. 

If you would like more support, coaching could be a great fit for you. You still do the work, but have someone to cheering you on, holding you accountable, helping you read the label from inside the jar.

Book a connection call today and let’s see if we’re a good fit for each other!