For a long time, it was accepted wisdom that each successive generation would be better off than the last. We’re talking about many, many generations where this was true. Things have changed dramatically over the past few decades.
And while the mobile sector is hot right now, there is no guarantee that in some years’ time, the desire or ability to do more with mobile devices will fade away, and you may well find yourself in that unenviable position of being in your 50s and trying to compete with the younger generation for jobs that you are not trained for and in which you have no experience. Even if you do have experience, good luck competing with someone who doesn’t have a family or other obligations…one who is willing to work twice the number of hours for half the money as you were making in your prior job.
Not that long ago, people with Liberal Arts degrees were also being pinged by headhunters on a very regular basis. Many of them thought they were invincible, and that their opportunities would only grow with their experience, knowledge, and a strong business network. It’s always best to look at the bigger picture, IMHO.[/quote]
CAR, those are some very good observations. I can’t tell you how many people I have known in various fields over the years who were “excused” from their careers in their 40’s and 50’s.
Other than the fact that I always wanted to be an airline pilot, I also originally chose that career because it is protected by very strong unions. I’ve, personally, never known one airline pilot over the years who was “let go” because their skills were outdated, or because of their age. Many retired young, but none could be forced out.
In other fields, where jobs are not protected by unions, the answer might be to make your fortune while you’re young, so you don’t have to worry about being replaced when you’re older.
