Numerous models of career development explain the sequence of stages that adults progress through during their work lives. These models emphasize the notion of an orderly series of career stages linked to age ranges, place the career into the context of a person’s life, and contain overlapping concepts. Occupational choice includes assessing possible occupations, selecting an occupation, and obtaining the necessary education. The choices one makes during this stage represent initial decisions rather than final ones.

This stage involves becoming established in a career and in an organization. Success can result in job satisfaction, advancement in terms of position and responsibility, and increased financial and social rewards. At the mid-career stage, one of the tasks the individual faces is a re-examination of the life structure and choices adopted during the early career. An individual may reaffirm or modify, and make choices to remain productive at work. During this stage, an individual may plateau or find their skills have become obsolete. The one who successfully resolves these challenges will remain productive, while one who does not will experience frustration and stagnation.

The individual faces two challenges during the late career. First, they must strive to remain productive and maintain a sense of self-esteem. Second, this individual faces the challenge of disengaging from work and retiring. Retirement brings many emotional, financial, and social changes and should be planned for well in advance of the actual retirement date.