new career at almost middle age?

Question

I'm a 39 year-old American man, been living in Japan for 10 years teaching English as a second language. I didn't come here for a career, but rather for the experience of living overseas. Problem is, I'd like to think about a career change, but I'm a little worried about studying for something and then not getting work due to age discrimination. I'd also kindof like to stay overseas, so outside of business, there's not much to do other than teaching English. Any thoughts or ideas?

Answer 1

May I recommend the East-West Center (EWC)and the University of Hawaii for your next step? With your overseas experience, you may get funding from the EWC and live in an international community (heavy on the Asian and Pacific side) while you pursue a graduate degree at UH Manoa. Even the Americans involved in the EWC specialize in Asian-Pacific topics.

Not sure what career you want to transition to, but I had a friend who graduated from college in the 60s, attended UH on an EWC fellowship in the 90s and 00s, then landed a position in California as director of a non-profit NGO. I've known EWC "alums" working for RAND, the Department of Energy, the Bank of the Philippines (as vice-president), the State Department, as a country director for the Peace Corps, as architects, and professors. Quite a lot of them ended up in Europe, somehow.

If you have the combination of overseas experience and a graduate degree that builds on and enhances that experience, age discrimination is not so much of a problem.

Answer 2

You could start your own business in Japan. Like tou guide for American tourists on the more challenging and interesting routes throughout Japan.
Or open your own American version of a Zen "hotel". People visit for a "westernized" spiritual experience. Like a mix of silent retreat with zen cuisine and some masters. But not too uncomfortable. Market those special "enlightment travels" in journals and magazines here.

Or you can perhaps import some very typcial american goods and sell them i Japan, open a "Western & Rodeo" shop or so. Sell cowboy boots and Stetson hats in Tokyo.

Or - really learn something new. Like - golf. I think Japanese people love golf. So you could open an "American golf shop".

Well - anyways - capitalize on you being an American in Japan or knowing about Japan and use this expertise with other Americans.

Answer 3

I'd suggest jobs in health care, such as becoming a physical therapist, nurse, respiratory therapist. There's always a demand everywhere for these!