21 Reinvention Ideas After 50 (That Can Also Earn You an Income)

Feeling burnt out, under-valued, or simply ready for a new chapter? You’re not alone. Many people in their 50s and beyond reach a point where their work no longer energises them — yet they still have years of living (and earning) ahead. The good news is, midlife is one of the best times to reinvent yourself. You’ve built skills, life experience, and resilience — now it’s about using them in a way that excites you and provides income.

Research shows that taking on new challenges in later life can improve mental sharpness, boost mood, and even support physical health. So why not turn that reinvention into an income stream too?

Here are 21 ideas to spark your imagination — plus a first step for each to help you get started.

1.Freelance Consulting

 Use your career experience to advise businesses or individuals.

First step: List your top three skills and find potential clients on LinkedIn or local business networks.

 2. Online Tutoring

Teach subjects you know well — from maths to languages — via platforms like Tutor.com.

First step: Sign up with an online tutoring service or advertise locally.

 3. Virtual Assistant

Provide admin, scheduling, and email management remotely.

First step: Create a basic profile on Fiverr or Upwork.

 4. Blogging or Content Creation

Share your expertise, hobbies, or life stories and monetise through ads and affiliate links.

First step: Choose a niche and start writing a simple blog (Shopify, WordPress, or Medium).

5. Crafting & Handmade Goods

Sell handmade items like candles, jewellery, or knitted items on Etsy.

First step: Pick one product to focus on and learn how to photograph it well.

 6. Pet Sitting & Dog Walking

Ideal for animal lovers and great for staying active.

First step: Advertise locally or sign up to Rover.com.

 7. Fitness Instructor or Wellness Coach

Train in yoga, Pilates, or personal training.

First step: Take an accredited short course in your chosen area.

 8. Property Management

Oversee holiday rentals or long-term lets for owners.

First step: Offer to manage a property for a friend or neighbour as a trial.

 9. Bed & Breakfast or Airbnb Host

Use spare rooms or a granny flat to earn extra income.

First step: Research local Airbnb listings to understand pricing and demand.

 10. Tour Guide or Local Experience Host

Run walking tours, photography sessions, or cultural experiences.

First step: Join Airbnb Experiences or partner with your local tourism office.

11. Life Coach or Mentor

Support others through career change, personal growth, or wellness.

First step: Get accredited and define your target audience.

 12. Gardening & Landscaping Services

Offer seasonal garden maintenance or design.

First step: Create before-and-after photos of your own garden to use in advertising.

 13. Delivery or Errand Services

Help people with grocery runs, parcel deliveries, or small transport jobs.

First step: Advertise on local Facebook groups.

 14. Personal Shopper or Wardrobe Consultant

Help clients refresh their style and confidence.

First step: Offer a free mini session to a friend and take photos for your portfolio.

 15. Professional Organiser

Declutter homes, offices, or storage spaces.

First step: Post “before and after” transformations on social media.

 16. Cooking Classes or Meal Prep

Teach others to cook healthy meals or offer pre-prepared options.

First step: Host a small trial class for friends and family.

17. Writing & Editing Services

Offer copywriting, resume editing, or proofreading.

First step: Collect a few writing samples and create a basic portfolio.

18. Online Reselling

Buy and resell items via eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or Depop.

First step: Start with things you already own to learn the process.

19. Podcasting

Share stories, interviews, or niche knowledge — monetise with sponsorships.

First step: Record a 10-minute pilot episode using free software like Audacity.

20. Photography Services

Specialise in portraits, pets, events, or local landscapes.

First step: Offer to shoot a small event or family portrait to build your portfolio.

21. House Clearances & Mini Moves

Help with downsizing, estate clearances, or moving small loads in a van.

First step: Hire or purchase a small van and advertise on Facebook Marketplace or Gumtree.