Your career will likely change over time as you develop new skills and interests. Many people are now considering career changes after doing a job for many years or simply becoming uninterested in their role. Career changes can be difficult, but if you go into it with the right mindset and a clear plan, the possibilities are endless.
Career Changes are Common
People all over the country are looking to change their careers. Some of the reasons why people change careers are increased earning potential, a desire to serve a specific interest, or a schedule that better fits their goals and priorities.
Although some jobs may seem like they’re ideal for you, it’s important to consider the various factors that affect your career choice carefully. Before you start working on a new job, you should take the time to assess yourself. Doing so can help you identify areas of potential growth and improve your skills.
Steps for Changing Your Career Path
It doesn’t matter your age, it’s still possible to change your career path. The average worker has 12 jobs throughout their working lives, with an average tenure of about four years. The rise of flexible work arrangements, work-life balance, and fulfillment has prompted more people to consider making a career change.
1. Take Money Out of the Equation
One of the most common reasons people change careers is money. Some of these include claiming that they can’t afford to take on new roles or that they’re the primary source of income for their family. However, it’s possible to earn a higher salary in a new career. You only have to think about it as a calculated risk.
2. Upgrade Your Mindset
Changing your career path can help you become open to new opportunities. It can also help you overcome your fears and move forward with confidence. Try saying things like, “I am fearless” or “I can do this” when you are trying to prepare yourself for a career change.
3. Consider Why You Want to Change Careers
Your reasons for making a change should not be based on how you were rejected for a promotion or how much you dislike your current employer. Instead, focus on how you want to achieve something in life that your current career doesn’t offer you.
4. Research New Career Paths
Before you start thinking about a new career, make sure that you identify the things that you’re good at and enjoy. Then, list down the various career paths that are ideal for you. Ask your friends and colleagues to give you advice about the field that you’re interested in. This can allow you to get a first-hand look at what it’s like to work at a particular job.
Some career paths may involve more education on your part, which is most easily done by attending a trade-like school. Some examples would be an EMT, electrician, dental assistant, commercial truck driver, and more. Enrolling in something you’re interested in like truck driving schools or dental assistant schools in San Diego or your surrounding area is a good way to get your foot in the door for your career change. Make sure to thoroughly research what you would need to complete to gain your accreditation and pick a school or courses that are right for you.
5. Test the Waters
Once you choose what you would like to do, it’s best to try it out before diving in. The best way to do this is by shadowing, which means going to someone who already performs the job you want to do to watch how they do it. Shadowing can give you great insight into whether a job may be the right fit for you, as you can see it firsthand. This is important because you don’t want to go through courses and certifications only to get into the job and not like it.
Of course, this isn’t always possible for some careers, but there are alternative ways to gain similar insights. If you’re hoping to become a pilot, for instance, a flight mentor can provide invaluable guidance, helping you navigate the challenges of training and offering real-world advice on what to expect. You can learn more here about the importance of mentorship in aviation and how it can support your journey to success. Taking the time to explore your chosen path through shadowing or mentorship not only helps you make informed decisions but also sets a strong foundation for long-term success in your career.
6. Create an Action Plan
After you have a clear direction for your future career, create an action plan that includes long and short-term goals. It should also include milestones that will help you reach your goals. A common mistake people make when it comes to making a career change is assuming that they have to start from the bottom.
In reality, you already have a wide range of skills that can be used in different fields. For instance, if you’re an attorney, you’re good at writing and researching. If you’re an accountant, you’re good at reporting and numbers.
Conclusion
It’s never too late to make a career change because no matter how old you are you can do it. Never believe that you’re too far down the road in what you’re doing now and that you can’t choose something different. Jobs take up a majority of a person’s life, so making sure you enjoy it is key. Throughout your process of choosing your new venture, remember that it is important to make a plan, stick to it, and never look back.