What’s Next? Encore Careers with Mark Ross

Meet Mark Ross, 62, who is thoroughly enjoying a life that he has created with intention.

After 30 years of serving the City of Houston, he felt that he would only find fulfillment if he took he act in a new direction. He wasn’t unhappy, but he knew he needed to do something new, something different.

In the process of figuring out his own Next Thing, he found the process of exploration to not only focus on the next paycheck. It was the whole picture of what type of life could he craft from his skills, experience, and passion that would lead him to serve others.

Mark also discovered that he needed a creative outlet and found that he had a talent for painting, which is now a major part of his life.

What I love about this conversation is that Mark is living a life of intention and purpose which is bringing him happiness. That is what our 50s are all about. Mark is a wonderful example of self-awareness and a successful second act.

About my guest: Mark A. Ross, RLA, MBA, CPLC, ACC

Mark Ross is the owner of Next Thing Coaching, which helps midlife professionals (50+), transition into an Encore season of life and work. Prior to this, Mark served in progressive leadership roles during his 30-year career with the City of Houston, TX. During his tenure, he influenced and helped expand the City of Houston’s park and green-space system. In his earlier career as an entrepreneur, Mark established a niche business to serve the architectural design market by providing custom design and fabrication of specialty furnishings. He is a native Houstonian, holds an MBA from Texas Woman’s University, a Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture from Texas A&M University and is a registered Landscape Architect in Texas. He is also a certified and credentialed Professional Life and Leadership Coach.

Mark has enjoyed being married for over 33 years to Jeannie from Jackson Mississippi and is the proud father of two grown daughters. He is active in his local church, is a native Houstonian, an artist, an avid walker, follows professional surfing, and loves pretty much anything that is process oriented.

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