No Longer A Mid-Life Crisis For Many

Far from being hit with a mid-life crisis in their 40s and 50s, many men and women are instead taking the opportunity to take real life-changing and self-affirming steps in their life, including a goal to travel the world.

According to Experian CreditExpert, the ‘curse’ of middle age, the mid-life crisis, compelling some to try and relive their youth through such as buying a sports car or splashing out designer clothing or some cosmetic surgery, is no longer.

According to the survey some 85% of 40-59 year olds are instead making decisions that directly impact their work and life happiness, giving themselves a second chance at achieving their ambitions and desires – from changing career or learning new skills to seeing the world.

Popular options include travelling the world, spending time learning new things and dedicating life to a favourite hobby. For men there is also a desire to improve the work/life balance.

Buying a new sports car didn’t even get listed and only 13% (3% only of men) would have cosmetic surgery.

Money of course will play a key role for many in terms of setting and achieving later-life goals. Almost 70% said that a sudden change in their financial situation, perhaps an inheritance windfall or pay rise, would kick-start their own mid-life makeover.

As average life expectancy and the retirement age creeps upwards, as Pete Turner, managing director of Experian Interactive comments: “People entering their late 40s in 2011 are still only halfway through their working lives.

“These results show that, far from throwing money at new toys in a ‘quick fix’, many are channelling their energy towards making positive, fulfilling changes.

“Preparing for the mid-life makeover by cleaning up your credit rating can, for many, be the first step towards achieving those dreams.”

You can find out more about the Experian CreditExpert service on their website – including a free 30 day trial.