What happens if you became a casualty to corporate restructuring or retrenchment? How do you get back up after a fall?

I am no stranger to employment crisis. Over twenty-two years ago, I lost a stable senior management job to the Asian Financial Crisis in 2001 and found myself jobless and aimless.

By some strange stroke of fate, I became recruited into the insurance sector, unlearned from the corporate career to become a risky business owner. In addition to income uncertainty, there was a social stigma around insurance sales which made the initial cold calling or sales effort very challenging.

Over time, my positive mindset and perseverance in the face of adversity started to turn a corner when I gained new clients and referrals. My wife was supportive of my career change and inspired me to keep the hopes high. Giving yourself a chance to do new things is important, because some things just become more difficult when you become an older person.

Today, in my late 50s, I specialize in personal financial planning, business insurance for corporations and health insurance. I am glad I made the mid-career change when I was younger and could have the time and opportunity to re-market myself. The financial industry will continue to be a beneficiary to technology and new AI tools, hence I consider it very important for all practitioners to receive continuing education and upskilling for successful adoption of these new tools.

I can now cook a meal at home for my family, relish a blissful quality of life, and have a renewed perspective in personal enjoyment which this financial services career offers me. This is a deeper sense of self-worth which gratifies me.