Two people, unknown to each other, have inspired me recently. The bloke, in his early 30s, has just moved in with his parents so he can afford to start a law degree. The female, freshly 40, has farewelled her fourth decade by becoming a full-time medical student. Neither of them saw age as an inhibitor to a new career. Could the same be said for others who are in their 50s and 60s?

Some would say no and would (almost) convincingly conjure reasons to explain why. There's the mortgage, for starters, which makes it difficult to accept the pay cut that often comes with the transition into a new profession. Others would use a lack of energy or skill or time as an excuse to stay put.

Never too old to start again.

And many would even tut-tut as they suggest someone closer to the retirement end of the working spectrum should already have their life sorted. Career decisions at that age should be based on advancing further in your chosen occupation rather than swerving in a radically different direction. That's what the naysayers think, anyway. It's a sadly narrow and restrictive view.

A few months ago, I asked a grumbling friend who was unfulfilled in his work what he'd do if he could start over. His response was simple and immediate. Veterinary nursing. That was it. He'd do the kind of job so perfectly aligned with his passion for animal rights. But he ruled it out because, being a few months shy of 42, he felt he'd missed the boat.