I’ve changed careers. In fact, I’ve changed careers three times. And I’ve been passionate about each one. You can find your “perfect” job or career and find it’s not perfect for ever. That’s ok. When I’m working with clients, I find I’m often encouraging them to give themselves permission to be comfortable with making a change, especially if it’s a change that will truly make them happy. But before making the leap to another job, or career, there are a few things to think about. I had to figure these things out for myself, and so will you…..
- Know What You Want: Don’t just leap at whatever opportunity comes along because it’s different or it’s what you think you want or it’s what everyone tells you you should be doing. Make a list of exactly what you loved in every job you ever had. Trust that you already know what you want, and then find ways to let it happen: write in a journal, create a vision board, collect quotes – do whatever it takes to allow your true “wants” come to the surface.
- Know What You Don't Want (and Be Honest About It): Think about what you have disliked about any job – all of those things that make your life harder, not easier. Be really honest with yourself. It’s time to get rid of all those "shoulds!" My favorite expression: “Don’t should on yourself”. Think about it.
- Know Your Values and Stay True to Them: What are the most important things to you? What drives you? Is it: family, fun, money, helping others... When your values align with your goals, you’re being true to yourself.
- Know Your Strengths: Think about those things that come easily to you. You can bet they’re hard for someone else. You were born with incredible talents so go ahead, jot them down, and decide how to use them to make money.
- Find the Right Resources: Do you know what you want, but aren't sure how to get there? Do you have an idea, but can't figure out how to make it into anything tangible? Once you know where you are, it's just a matter of finding the resources to get you there. The Mansfield Public Library has some really great selections, including “Changing Careers for Dummies”. It’s useful and fun to read.
- Know Your Support System: You don’t have to go at it alone. So often the best ideas die because there’s no one to bounce them around. There’s no need to live and dream in a silo – find a coach, talk to a consultant, create a team of like-minded people. Get the ball rolling and see what happens.
- Get Those Finances in Order: Money can be the number one excuse for not moving forward. If you can't support yourself, you'll drain precious energy from yourself...energy you could be using to find your perfect work.
- Be Honest with Yourself: Tell yourself there’s something wonderful out there waiting for you. And truly believe it. Think about what scares you about it? What makes you excited about it? What do you need to change in order to make it happen? Once you can identify all of the pieces, you’ll be amazed at how much clearer things are.
- Create Space for a Change: What would you life look like if you found work or a career you loved? Would it be chaotic? Would your home look like a tornado hit? How would you find time to take care of yourself and those around you? How would the kids get to all their activities? Find out what you’re tolerating and get these distractions to a minimum so you can spend time creating what you want.
- Have Fun – You Deserve It: If you're miserable in your current job, chances are the rest of your life isn't much fun either, and those around you are noticing it. Make a list of the top things you know you have fun doing, and then schedule time to do them. “Me time” is the most important thing you can do. Make an appointment with yourself today!
Over the next few months, I’ll be offering some tips and sharing what I’ve learned over the years as a career-changer and as a career coach. It can be a daunting experience, however if you are prepared for this journey, you’ll be surprised at how much fun it can truly be. Enjoy!
Linda Fernando is a Career Coach, Career Consultant and Leadship Development Coach. Learn more about her at www.lindafernandocoaching.com. Her column will appear every other Thursday.