Recently a couple of articles have been written about the lessons that bloggers can learn from topics and events that are completely unrelated to blogging.

And who would have thought that Britney Spears shaving her head, or museum exhibits, could be of benefit to blog writers? Well, you’d be surprised.

Similarly, who would have thought people changing careers could take a few pointers, and gain some insights, from those going through a midlife crisis? Once more, you’d be surprised.

Sure many people think the “concept” of a midlife crisis is pathetic, tacky, and even self indulgent, but there are a few things career changers can learn from this “burning of the blood”, or Pon Farr, if you happen to be Vulcan.

1. That yearning for something more
In the context of a midlife crisis this “yearning” usually means a longing for lost youth and vitality.

Rather than pining for something they cannot have back though, career changers can instead aspire to finding more satisfying and fulfilling work.

2. Being bold and adventurous
Another symptom of the midlife crisis is the inordinate desire to break bungee jumping records, or climb Mt. Everest, and those “suffering” somehow seem to find new motivation to try things they’ve never dared do before.

While career changers don’t have to start scaling vertical rock faces, or competing in marathons (unless of course you’d like a new career as a marathon runner) you won’t get very far unless you are willing to break out of your comfort zones and try something new.

3. Reevaluation & self improvement
I can’t think of many people who would label this phase of a midlife crisis so kindly. But that’s exactly what is happening, even if the, shall we say, motivations for such reevaluation, and subsequent “self improvement” are slightly dubious.

For career changers though, there is nothing the least bit dodgy about some reevaluation of life and career goals, and even a little self improvement, through a combination of things like study, work experience, and networking, to bring about a change.

4. Buying that damn Porsche
Ah, the sports car. That indisputable symbol of youth, vitality, and success. Surely just the tonic for a debilitating case of midlife crisis? In the minds eye that is. Or should I say pig’s eye?

While the flash sports car may provide temporary relief, and a short lived ego boost, all a “dream car” does in reality is put a huge dent put in the buyer’s wallet.

Career changers on the other hand, can achieve long term contentment and gratification, by trading up to their dream career.

5. You must be joking
Be prepared to be called a fool. Get ready to be told you’re being ridiculous. Whether you are having a midlife crisis, or changing careers.

If you are changing careers however, ignore such taunts.

You’re not leaving your lifelong partner or family, nor pursuing a potential lover 20 years your junior, dyeing your blond, growing a pony tail, having plastic surgery, or adorning your ears with pirate size earrings, are you?

Now that, me hearties, is ridiculous.