Career Advice
Exploring a career transition.
I get asked this question often — is it okay to shift from one career to another? And now, it’s also got me thinking — maybe I can do it too? Maybe we should all think about it at some point in our lives.
I often get this question when I take up my mentoring sessions — “I want to shift my career from this … to this … do you think I can do it? Is it viable?”
While I admire the folks who bravely decide it’s time to move from one career to another, I sometimes advise them to take it slow and think about everything — life, money, time, skills, responsibilities — before they decide to take the plunge. It can be risky to transition suddenly, but with proper planning, I think a career pivot can do wonders. It can take you places that you’ve never imagined. You might rediscover a passion via a new career. The possibilities are endless.
I have been thinking about it.
Lately, I have been pondering the idea of a slight shift too as to where I am headed with my career (and life, too.). And all these similar thoughts keep working in my head — finance, time, skills— before the idea to move to pursue something else.
In my case, I am thinking of a stint in entrepreneurship. I have had many ideas over the years that I have wanted to turn into products (and maybe form my own company, who knows), and after eight years of working, I think I am ready to make a splash by trying to build something on my own. I am blessed to have a creative side hobby (you can find me here), so I intend to leverage that and turn some of that art into something valuable and exciting. Fun times are ahead!
But before I jump into all those exciting ideas, there are some things that I need to keep in mind — money being the most important of the lot. And a plan B if an idea doesn’t take off. That would mean jumping back into the job market and restart hunting. I have no intention of stopping that, though, that will keep happening on the side, but my energy will undoubtedly be more on exploring and bringing my ideas to life.
Want to make the pivot, then?
So yes, if you are like me, looking to explore something new or transition to a new career, take it step by step. There are things you need to consider before leaping to exploring a new career —
- Evaluate your current situation — Before making any drastic changes, it’s crucial to evaluate your current job satisfaction. Reflect on why you’re considering a career change. Is it due to dissatisfaction with your work environment, the nature of your work, or the industry itself? Do you think another field of work will help you do better? Understanding your reasons will help guide your next steps.
- Discover your interests, values and skills — Once you’ve evaluated your current job satisfaction, the next step is to assess your interests, values, and abilities. Try to identify the activities that energize and fulfil you. In my case, I am considering giving my artistic side a chance to create products and my design background to bring those to life.
- Research and explore new career paths — With a better understanding of your interests and skills, begin researching new career paths. Explore what needs to be learnt, and meet/talk to people in the field you wish to explore while considering your finances and the time it takes to work on the new career path.
- Take the required courses and training — Changing careers may require additional training or education. Assess whether you’re ready to invest the necessary time and resources. Fortunately, many flexible educational options are available today, including online programs and short-term courses. Choose the one that will work best for you regarding money and time. In my case, I am looking at picking up some skills regarding business strategy and marketing.
- Test the waters — If possible, gain experience in your desired field before fully committing. This could be through volunteering, internships, or part-time work. Such experiences will provide valuable insights and help you confirm whether this new career is right for you. Before jumping into the idea I am exploring, I did a trial run to understand if it made sense to do it if it would be viable and to gain experience in selling and marketing.
- Keep track of your finances — Changing careers might result in reduced income. Review your financial situation and plan accordingly to ensure a smooth transition.
- Build a supportive network — A supportive network can be immensely beneficial when making a significant life change. Seek advice, feedback, and moral support from friends, family, or mentors.
- Use your current skills — Your current job has undoubtedly equipped you with skills that can benefit your new career. Transferable skills like communication, problem-solving, and leadership are valued across various industries. I also work as a UX designer, so this skill will be a great asset when I build my product and tailor its experience for my users.
- Seek professional help — Consider consulting with a career coach or mentor. Their guidance can be invaluable in helping you navigate this transition, providing personalized advice, keeping you motivated, and helping you overcome challenges.
- Embrace resilience and patience — Changing careers is a significant step and may take time. Stay resilient in the face of potential rejections or setbacks. Patience is critical in this transition.
Got it, so when should I make the pivot?
Timing is a critical factor when considering a career pivot. However, the “right” time can vary significantly depending on individual circumstances. Here are a few indications that it might be a good time for you to consider a career change:
- Personal Fulfillment — If you’re feeling unfulfilled or dissatisfied with your current career — the nature of the work, your work environment, or the industry — this might signal that it’s time to consider a pivot.
- Market Trends — Economic and industry trends can also influence the timing of your career pivot. If your industry is facing a decline or layoffs are becoming common, consider transitioning to a field with better job security and prospects.
- Skill Set Evolution — As you grow and evolve, so do your skills and interests. If your current career doesn’t utilize your skills or align with your interests, it might be time to explore a new career path.
- Work-Life Balance — A career change might be warranted if your current job affects your personal life negatively, causes excessive stress, or prevents you from achieving a healthy work-life balance.
- Financial Stability — If you’re financially stable and can handle a period of potential income uncertainty, this might be an excellent time to consider a career pivot.
It can be exciting but remember this...
A career pivot is a deeply personal journey that demands careful self-reflection, thorough planning, and a proactive approach. Despite the challenges inherent in such a significant change, the rewards can be substantial.
Finding work that aligns with your interests, values, and skills can lead to immense fulfilment and joy, redefining your professional life in a positive, satisfying way. Imagine the pleasure you get when you find and work on the career you are passionate about.
It’s important to remember that the ‘perfect’ time for a career pivot varies significantly among individuals. There’s rarely a universally ideal time to make this substantial switch. However, by closely evaluating your circumstances, being aware of market conditions, and truly understanding your aspirations, you can make an informed decision that best suits your professional growth and personal satisfaction.
While timing a career pivot can be tricky, it’s never too late to explore a career path that resonates with you. With careful consideration and planning, you can navigate this transition successfully, setting yourself up for future success in a career that brings you true fulfilment.
Remember, your career is a significant part of your life, and it’s essential for the career to choose to bring you financial stability, happiness, and a sense of purpose. Embrace the journey of a career pivot with an open mind and a resilient spirit. As you step into this new phase, may it lead you to opportunities that align with your skills and passions and bring you closer to achieving your professional and personal goals.
I am now exploring my newfound interest in business, entrepreneurship and art. As I explore my new career path, I plan to document my journey firsthand to share the experience with all of you. It should be exciting. Fingers crossed 🤞
