The traditional concept of whiling away your retirement days playing golf just doesn’t appeal to lots of people anymore–or it isn’t an option in an age of economic turmoil.

 If you’re looking for a new career instead of retiring, be prepared:

• Update your technical skills. The rapid pace of technological change may require that you get additional training for the career you’re thinking of pursuing. Check out your options with govern­ment, nonprofit, and corporate technology training programs.

• Evaluate your talents and values. Talk to people you know well, both professionally and personally, and find out what they think your strengths are. Have a good handle on your talents and values so your new career matches them.

• Do a little research. If a particular career appeals to you, investigate it. Talk to people already in the field, and find out what they like and don’t like about their work.

• Don’t ignore the financial implications of the new career. Make sure the new career will provide the income you need to live comfortably.

• Enjoy the work. Do something you love, and let yourself enjoy the work. If, for example, you tended to be a workaholic in your former career, don’t let yourself make the same mistake in your new pursuit.