Changing careers, no matter if you are 25 or 55, may seem like a daunting proposition. You have to take stock of your life, ask yourself if this is something you want to put your family through and determine the benefits versus the drawbacks. In the end, the risks of changing careers could be worth the rewards.
Changing careers can happen in just three steps. Up to 70 percent of Americans claim to be disengaged, which really means that they are completely bored. Anyone can make a midlife turnaround to make more money, lead a more fulfilling existence and have fun.
The first step involves taking stock of where you are in life. Identify areas you can improve, what you do well, aspects of your job you enjoy and facets of your life you want to change. Find a peaceful, quiet setting and take notes. Make a list or write journal about what drives you to alter the patterns of your life. The process of changing careers must start somewhere.
Secondly, determine what kind of life you want to live in the future. Although it is fun to fantasize about beach houses, ski vacations in the Alps and owning a 10,000-acre ranch, you need to take this examination process seriously. Reinventing your life is a lot to take in within a short amount of time. Ascertain which values are important to you, find your strengths and embrace your passions. Translate these areas into a dream job that suits you.
If you love interacting with children and you feel passionately about making a difference to kids, set a goal to leave behind your cubicle near the corner office to become a principal of a school. When you discover camping in the woods makes you the most at peace, consider a business as an outdoor wilderness guide. If your mind is already open to changing careers, you have an endless array of options open to you.
The third step involves finding an open position at a purpose-driven company that shares your values. If you find no companies or organizations fit your mold, create your own.
Changing careers after three steps needs to be fulfilling – or the process is for nothing. Follow your instincts and don't underestimate yourself, even when people say moving to a different career is impossible. You may have to make sacrifices along the way. Budget for a pay cut if you start over at a lower-level job. Plan ahead by thoroughly educating yourself on the career you want. Take business classes, get a teaching certificate or attend auto repair courses. If you feel happier at the end of the day, despite physical exhaustion and the stress of new opportunities, chances are you found what you were seeking.
Changing careers in the middle of your life does not have to be tragic, nor does it happen overnight. Keep a job while you go to school. Surround yourself with people who support you. You can still make your life comfortable during this transition.
Photo courtesy of SCA Svenska Cellulosa Aktiebolaget at Flickr.com
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