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Purpose-led Career Change and Well-being: The Experience of Midlife Women

Miryam Smit & Sumaira Malik

Journal of Career Development2026https://doi.org/10.1177/08948453261437095article
AJG 1ABDC B
Weight
0.50

Abstract

This study explored the intersection of midlife women, purpose-led career change, and well-being. Given the limited existing research, a qualitative approach was used to highlight the transformative potential within this area. Semi-structured interviews with six participants were employed and analyzed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). The themes “Compromised Self,” reflecting the women’s initial unaligned career choices, and “True Self,” encapsulating the women’s journey towards purpose-led careers, were identified. Whilst challenging, the transition outcomes were promising, with career dissatisfaction making way for fulfillment, improved health, and contribution to others. Factors such as introspection, agency, and external support facilitated pathways to the new careers, with most transitioning into self-employment. The insights obtained contribute to the fields of purpose and career change and suggest that women’s midlife career change presents an untapped potential for personal fulfillment and societal sustainability.

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https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1177/08948453261437095

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@article{miryam2026,
  title        = {{Purpose-led Career Change and Well-being: The Experience of Midlife Women}},
  author       = {Miryam Smit & Sumaira Malik},
  journal      = {Journal of Career Development},
  year         = {2026},
  doi          = {https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1177/08948453261437095},
}

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Evidence weight

0.50

Balanced mode · F 0.40 / M 0.15 / V 0.05 / R 0.40

F · citation impact0.50 × 0.4 = 0.20
M · momentum0.50 × 0.15 = 0.07
V · venue signal0.50 × 0.05 = 0.03
R · text relevance †0.50 × 0.4 = 0.20

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