This article is part of our #40over40 series.
This is our time! We’re stronger when we work together to lift other women up. Evolve is creating the list we've been waiting for -- the first-ever 40 Over 40 list! We're curating profiles of women who have or are in the process of reinventing their careers in their 40s, 50, 60s and beyond. We're thrilled to share these stories of reinvention - women returning to work, pivoting careers or launching new ventures!
Meet the wonderful Alma Russo. Her second chapter? She launched a successful career as a high end residential and commercial interior designer. And her skills are in demand! Apart from design, Alma knows the rewards and challenges of combining motherhood and running a business. Read more to from her experience...
What prompted your career reinvention? I was passionate about this field and I truly said if not now then when. So I went back to school and hit the ground running.
What's the best thing about midlife career change? You are less inclined to listen to the white noise that sometimes squelches the aspirations of our youth. The older you get, the less you care what other people think.
What's the biggest challenge? Work/life balance. You have to forgive yourself when you inevitably fall short in either area.
What's your personal mantra or mission? Why? It’s a bit of a cliche, but work hard and be nice to people. We pride ourself in our customer service. That often means taking calls after hours and on weekends but is a fundamental part of any service industry.
Your best career advice for other women at midlife is... Every expert was once an amateur. I feel the most fundamental tool to success is knowing that it will take time and allow yourself the grace to accept this. Growing in business always involves a learning curve and you will eventually get there.
Follow Alma on Instagram @arinteriors