Over the years, I have identified two kinds of midlife career changers: Jumpers and Clingers.

Jumpers thrive on energy, enthusiasm and improbable luck. The last three times they leaped, a net appeared. They see no reason why the next jump should be any different.

Clingers thrive on careers that offer security, money and identity. When they outgrow their careers, or find themselves forced out, they feel lost. They can't remember the last time they found themselves in this position.

Jumpers call a coach when they are ready to find a new mountain. Suggest a destination and they ask, "Where is it?" Often they've made another leap before the coach realizes what is going on.

Clingers call a coach when they find themselves lost in the jungle. They ask, "How do I know if I've made the right decision?" and, "How can I find security?" They hold out a one-way ticket, asking, "How do I change to a round trip?"

Jumpers have learned to accept that sinking-feeling-in-the-gut as they leap off the mountain. Climbers are not used to feeling edgy. They don't want a roadmap; they want a hotel reservation, preferably chosen from a listing in the auto club book.

Both Jumpers and Clingers face a new reality. Even the bravest Jumper can run out of luck. Choose the wrong mountain and the net never appears. And in the twenty-first century, Clingers must create their own security.

Jumpers must stop at the edge of the mountain, before the point of no return. "Does this feel right?" they have to ask. "Should I look first this time, to see if the net really exists? Or maybe instead of leaping it's time to climb down more carefully, one ledge at a time."