Instead of a job for life, it's now generally accepted we will have a portfolio of careers — a series of roles and three to four different career paths.

Career pivots are the new norm and people are increasingly changing careers at any age.

While stereotypes of mature workers being out of touch persist, research shows an increasing number of over 50s are up to date with the latest trends and technologies and are exploiting the opportunities that come with them.

This can be seen in the increasing number of "seniorpreneurs" — Australians over the age of 55 starting businesses — the fastest growing segment of entrepreneurs in Australia.

As people live longer, mature age is redefined — now it's seen as early retirement if you check out of the workforce at 55. The Government would like us to work until we're 70, so through choice and necessity, we are looking for new options.

If you look this miserable at work, it might be time for a change. ( ABC News: Luke Rosen )

For those thinking it is time to pivot, here's seven tips to get you started.

1. Define why you want a career change

Are you motivated by money? Annoying colleagues? A bad boss? Chasing a dream?

Defining your motivation will help you determine whether you need a full career change to fix the problems, or whether a new role might suffice. It will also help you remember what you're looking for as you evaluate new courses and positions.

2. Reacquaint yourself with the real you

Ask yourself what you're passionate about, where your strengths lie and what motivates you.

What roles meet your core values?

3. Thoroughly research your new industry

Research what jobs are out there that could satisfy your true self.

4. Gather intel

Talk to industry professionals about what your proposed occupation and industry is really like. LinkedIn is a great place to reach out for advice.

5. Get a trusted outside opinion

A qualified career professional will help you work through your options and provide a framework to take the next steps forward.

6. Identify your transferrable skills

Tailor your resume and applications to the new role. This can be challenging but the key is to highlight your transferable skills and achievements.

7. Take the plunge

Conquering the fear of the unknown is vital to any career pivot. If you've done your research and made sure you're changing for the right reasons, it's time to take the next leap.

How to up-skill

The future of work is unknown. Qualifications are still valued and so too are life experience and independent learning. Consider enrolling in formal module learning and on the job training, particularly if you're open to an entry level start.

Instead of dreaming of your ideal role, get your dream career underway.

You don't have to be hired as a journalist to become a blogger. You don't have to train in IT to build a website.

With the assistance of technology, up-skilling has never been easier.

Not sure how to do something? YouTube it. Need some IT support? Airtasker it. Need new qualifications? Enrol in an online course. Opportunities are only limited by your willingness to embrace them.

And if you still think you're too old for a career change, I challenge you to check out the late Ruth Flowers, the English grandmother who made a successful career from DJing.

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But what if I fail?

The fear of failure often stops us from trying. Many successful people failed along the way, but a key rule of entrepreneurship is to celebrate your failures, as they help you understand what not to do.

If you want your own business, you can start it in your own time while keeping your job.

That way, you don't have to "lose the farm" while you build your empire. For six months, I kept a foot in both worlds, keeping my job but growing my business, until I was comfortable to take the leap.

Choosing your next career

Even if you don't know what you want to do, seeing a career coach will help you uncover your new direction. They are experts in understanding how your passions and attributes will point to a career that will fulfil you. They'll also tell you what steps to take and how long that journey might be.

So why stay where you are if it does not make your heart sing? Take action, talk to people in the know and spend your precious time doing what you love.

Sophia Symeou is CEO and co-founder of INS Career Management.