There are many people in the world who decide to put there careers on hold for whatever reason.  The reason run the gamut,  and we will discuss some of them now. 

One of the most common reason for putting a career or education on hold is becoming a parent full-time.  This is one of the most difficult jobs a person can have but the most common nevertheless.  Other reasons include,  taking extra time off (or quiting completely) to care for a sick or elderly parent,  going back to school to pursue a GED or college degree or other educational reason.   Others simply take time off because they are sick or too "stressed out". 

Whatever the reason may be,  people decide to re-enter the workforce in record numbers.  They have had businesses that failed,  parents that died or no longer need them, their children have grown up and they need something more fulfilling.  A reason to get up in the morning and feel needed. 

The problem these people face when they have been away from the workforce for an extended period of time is the changes that have most likely taken place since they have been gone.  They are at quite a disadvantage  when they attempt to return.  Many times,  technology and values have changed considerably since their absence.   Many times these people lack self-confidence to re-enter the workforce and put up artificial roadblocks that are most times unnecessary.   The following are some tips to make going back to work much easier and fun. 

Don't be unrealistic.   Those that have not been working sometimes expect to start where they left off.  Most times they have to start at an entry level job competing with incoming high school and college graduates.  Don't expect to start at your manager job if you have been out of the workforce for an extended period of time. 

Think about starting a different career path.  Think about doing something that you have not done before.  Your old skills may not be needed before,  or you may be at a point in your life where you would like to try something new and different.  This is an excellent time for you to do just that.  You may try something that you thought of doing in the past but did not go through with it. 

Always be positive about your new job or career path.  Potential employers will sense your lack of enthusiasm and judge you accordingly.  It is very important that you maintain a positive light in whatever situation you may be in. It may just land you that dream job if you have the right attitude. 

Learn something new by attending one of the many online colleges or universities.  There are many schools (some in your local area) that offer classes you can take online.   If you are reading this, chances are you already have a computer,  so do some research and find the best fit for you. It would probably be best to start in your own area to find out whatout there.  Many times the tuition is much less expensive than if you considered something out of your locale.   

Lastly,  keep your head up and have a plan.   Having a plan is the  thing many people lack.  Having a plan and sticking to it is an entire other situation.   Have a plan and stick to it,  you can do it!