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Going Back to Work at 57: A Musician’s Journey Back to the Marketplace

Two little girls stood in front of the glass doors that protected the freshly fried donuts. One of them seemed to be having a meltdown, and I couldn’t help but chuckle. Amidst her frustration, the older girl dramatically exclaimed, “Trust the process!!” as if those three words could solve any dilemma. Little did she know, those same words have echoed in my mind since I made the decision to re-enter the workforce at 57.

For years, I was on the other side of that donut case, occasionally snatching a freshly fried chocolate covered Bavarian creme at 7 AM for our 10 AM coffee break. In my husband’s home, they always stopped for coffee and a treat mid-morning. We’ve continued that tradition all through our marriage, as much as possible. But now, I’m the one behind the scenes, making the donuts. It’s a far cry from my days spent immersed in music, but one year into this new chapter, I’ve found meaning and even joy in the process.

From Music to Making Donuts: Why the Change?

COVID-19 was a major disruptor for many musicians, including myself. Like many artists, my music career was hit hard, and I found myself faced with difficult decisions. I’ve always been resourceful, creating new opportunities and persevering, but the financial strain and uncertainty took its toll. I could no longer rely on music alone to support my career or my studio.

When I read an article by Derek Sivers that encouraged artists to not solely rely on their art to fund their art, something clicked. I didn’t want to admit that finding a part-time job might be necessary, but his words gave me the freedom to see it as an opportunity.

“Don’t expect your job to fulfill all your emotional needs. Don’t taint something you love with the need to make money from it. Don’t try to make your job your whole life. Don’t try to make your art your sole income. Let each be what it is, and put in the extra effort to balance the two, for a great life.” –Derek Sivers

So, I dusted off my resume (which hadn’t been updated in decades), revamped it, and began the daunting task of job hunting.

The Job Search Process

At 57, looking for a job felt like stepping into a whole new world. I was nervous about interviews, worried that my non-traditional career path would make it difficult for me to stand out in a competitive marketplace. Marianne Renner, through her book Stop Thinking Like an Employee, helped me assess my skills and approach my job search strategically.

I evaluated each job I’ve ever had, listed what I loved and disliked, and identified themes that I could look for in a new role. I knew I needed to find something that allowed me to be part of a team, work with numbers, and maintain creativity.

I applied to three different companies, received two offers, and was the second choice at the third. I accepted both offers, as they seemed flexible with my unpredictable music career schedule. One role checked all the boxes, but after seven months, I resigned because the ‘team’ aspect I valued wasn’t happening.

Then I auditioned for a part-time church pianist position in Harrisburg. I didn’t get it.

One day I saw the sign: “Donut Fryer Needed”, at our local grocery store. It met all the criteria–and even some I didn’t plan on. It’s been a surprising fit!

Lessons Learned (So Far)

1. The Shock Factor: Re-entering the workforce at my age has been jarring. It’s a completely different routine, and adjusting to the physical demands of a job on my feet has been an eye-opener. My musical career has had me sitting at a piano or a desk—frying donuts is not the same!
2. The Fear Factor: I was scared on my first day at each job. Would I fit in? Would I be able to keep up? But the truth is, fear is normal when you’re stepping into new territory.
3. The Fatigue Factor: Standing on my feet for 8–10 hours a day is tough, especially with my history of foot issues. It’s been a humbling reminder that I’m not as young as I used to be. I’ve had to let go of some of the peripheral things about my music career.
4. The Possibility Factor: This new role has shown me that stepping outside of my comfort zone can open up possibilities. I’ve learned new skills, met wonderful people, and developed a sense of stability I hadn’t felt in years. And believe it or not, making donuts has its own kind of creative process! I also don’t need a gym membership. I get plenty of exercise unloading and stocking heavy boxes…oh yeah – another lesson – make sure you ask good questions and understand what you’ve signed up for. Then, stay flexible.

Advice for Other Artists Returning to Work

• Assess your skills: Take the time to reflect on what you’ve loved about past jobs and use that to guide your search.
• Expect challenges: There will be fatigue, fear, and discomfort, but pushing through these obstacles is part of the growth process.
• Embrace new opportunities: A job doesn’t mean abandoning your art. For me, this job has provided the financial stability to continue creating music while learning new things.

At 58, I’m still making music, launching a new book in stores in October, raising funds for Double Keyed’s new recording project, and gearing up for Portraits of White 2024. And while I never imagined I’d be waking up at 4 AM to make donuts, here I am—learning to trust the process, just like that little girl at the donut case.

Derek Sivers created CD Baby in 1998, a company that went on to become the largest online seller of independent music with $100 million in sales for 150,000 musicians. Incidentally, CD Baby is still the online distributor I use for streaming my music. You can read the full article by Derek Sivers here.

Marianne Renner is a facilitator of lightbulb moments, helping growth-minded leaders shift their paradigms and develop the mindset needed to overcome challenges that weigh them down. Her story has had a major impact on my life!

Her own journey overcoming obstacles inspired a career studying human behavior and the “why” behind decisions people make. Through her speaking, coaching and training programs, Marianne inspires leaders to think differently about the way they work, lead and live. She delivers practical tools that help leaders rise above the chaos and move forward in their careers.

You can purchase her book Stop Thinking Like an Employee, here.

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