With all the layoffs lately, and unemployment at its highest in decades, it's not surprising that claims of discrimination are soaring too.  Charges of age discrimination are up 29 percent, according to statistics released by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. 

It stands to reason.  Older workers have more experience, knowledge and wisdom -- and in most cases, higher salaries because of these attributes.  They also necessitate higher health care premiums.  Overall, if a company is looking to cut costs, it seems like the logical thing to do.  But is it really?

Businesses are having difficulties right now, no question.  But is the solution to let younger, less experienced workers run the show?  Maybe, if the older workers are unwilling or unable to adapt to new realities and are fighting change.  That will get you on the short list regardless of your age.  Embracing change and working to adapt to the way things are and potentially will be -- rather than clinging to the way things were and how we might like them to be again -- is the way to stay current and valuable in all areas of life, not just your job.

Suppose you are all of those things -- resilient, leading change, focusing on the future, a real "team player" -- and you still lose your job?  Maybe it's a wakeup call that your gifts are not being appreciated and its time to play a bigger game.  If you've got the right attitude, your severance package can be the ticket to a life you've only dreamed of.  Now is the time to really focus on who you are, what you have to offer, and what would make you happy.  Sure, it might require a downward adjustment in your lifestyle, at least temporarily.  But think of it as an investment in your future.  Look forward a few years -- did you really want to be in that job anyway?  Were you counting the days to retirement, until you could really live your life?  You've been given a headstart -- don't blow it by wallowing in self-pity and taking the first minimum-wage job that comes along (unless it's to pay the bills while you investigate new opportunities).  If you're considering going back to school for that MBA, it's even more important that you really understand your goal.  If it may get you a better job in the same or similar industry, but you were unhappy in that industry anyway, is it really the best investment?  Education is expensive these days, and if you're going to spend the time and money, be sure it's going to get you what you really want!

Dust off those old passions and interests and see what you can make of them.  You're never too old to go for your dream!