Is It Time For a Career Change?
Changing careers is more common than you may think. Most people initiate a career pivot a minimum of three or more times during their lifetime. Often, people spend years in a specific industry or role before they realize that it’s no longer a good fit or dare to take on a new challenge. Identifying why it isn’t a good fit is key to getting your career back on the right track. That information can help you decide if the next step should be a change in industry, function, or both.
How To Know When To Change Careers
There are some common signs that indicate it’s time to consider a career change. For example, you may feel burned out or bored. You may feel a lack of motivation and creativity. If you’ve been in the same job for many years, you may want new and bigger challenges. The first step - is recognizing that it’s time to take action.
You Constantly Feel Burned Out
People in the wrong career commonly experience burn out. You may feel drained of energy like you have no more gas in the tank. Like you can’t go another step forward…commonly referred to as ‘hitting a wall’. Physical symptoms can include fatigue, insomnia, forgetfulness, or more serious issues. You might also find yourself getting sick more often.You Feel Bored or Apathetic at Work
Sometimes people reach a point where they know they can do more and they want to, but not in this job. If this sounds like you, then it may be time to find a new path where you will feel challenged and able to realize your potential.You’re Jealous of Others’ Jobs
People in the wrong job are often jealous of their friends’ and family members’ jobs. Don’t dismiss these feelings. Rather, use them as a way to begin thinking about what careers may be right for you.You Have No Room To Grow
Another sign that a job isn’t a good fit is lack of opportunity for growth. If you feel stuck in your current career, a change could help you find a new path where you can go farther and make a bigger impact.
Where To Start With Your Career Change
Once you decide that it’s time to make a change, it can feel overwhelming. How do you begin to make that happen?
The first step involves self-reflection. Consider things like:
What do you enjoy?
What would make you excited to get up in the morning and do each day?
Do you know anyone with any interesting job that you want to learn more about?
Is there a way to leverage your past experiences with other interests?
What strengths do you have and what knowledge gaps do you need to fill?
Can you make a change within your current organization?
These insights will help you to identify careers that may be a better fit.
Next, create a plan.
Who will you talk to for career, industry, and job search information or help?
How will you identify opportunities?
How will you fill any knowledge gaps?
Conduct research. The grass is not always greener on the other side. Research as much as possible about the day-to-day responsibilities of a new career. Something may sound great on paper, but it’s important to assess yourself and your values to see if it’s really a good fit. For example, if it turns out that a job requires 70% travel and you have young kids, maybe it isn’t the best fit now. So do informational interviews with others and conduct online research.
Ready to talk with someone? I’m happy to help. Reach out for a free consult today.