You look around and something doesn’t feel right. Maybe you feel you’re not where you thought you’d be. Perhaps you feel unfulfilled, frustrated, unchallenged. Maybe there have been other changes in your life that give you the sense that you could be doing more. Maybe the dream that once seemed so far away is suddenly starting to look doable. All of these are totally plausible situations for the average American. The older model of working for one company for forty years and retiring with a pension is no longer that common or, in fact, desired. Today most Americans change jobs or careers throughout their lifetimes.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, many workers spend five years or less in a job. Because of this new culture of frequent job changes, it is important for people to be proficient in job searching skills, interview skills, and even networking. Many people today use a variety of tools when looking to change their jobs.
And yet for many that are doing more than just a job change, the transition can be a little more hard-fought. If what you’re looking for is a complete change from your current job or career, there might be a couple of things to consider to make the process as smooth as possible. Forbes magazine focuses on the experience of people that have made such a transition. So let’s take a look at some words of advice for transitioning into a new path in life.
- Begin with an honest self-assessment. You may have already passed this stage, but begin by taking an honest look at what you like and dislike about your current job. This will help in identifying possible career choices that might fit your style and remind you of the things that you are passionate about. Make an honest list of what you are searching for and why you want to switch. It might not be a good idea to hurl yourself into chaos by simply walking out of your current job. Take some time to know what you really want.
- Accept the long journey ahead. Taking your career in a new direction does not happen overnight. Depending on the change, it might require additional training, more schooling, research, or other requirements. It very often has taken people years of reflection, confusion, and exploration to finally establish themselves on a new path. Just because it might be a long journey, doesn’t mean it’s any less fulfilling or needs to be stressful. Planning out your finances as you go along will keep you on track while allowing you the time necessary to switch.
- Stay committed and engaged. As you very much well know, success doesn’t happen overnight. Read any success stories of prominent entrepreneurs and what might seem like an overnight success is actually a story that shows a long and drawn-out commitment and dedication that simply paid off after a time. Most of these successful people will have started working on their project years before anyone hears of it and they see failures and setbacks and they keep going.
- Take small actions and move forward. The process is not always clear cut, especially if you’re not sure where precisely you want to go. So begin by taking one class or move towards enrolling in a new program. Take actions that move you towards the new direction and the journey itself will begin to take shape and provide the opportunities. At the same time, you might discover important things about yourself along the way and this will only help you be a better worker.
- Explore new circles of people. People always say that you’re the average of the people you hang out with. In fact, well-known American entrepreneur, Jim Rohn once said “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time.” If you’re looking to explore new avenues, use other people as resources and use them for information. Your immediate professional network might be clouding the new possibilities that lay beyond the horizon.
- Embrace the journey. Many people become apologetic or begin to fear that they will be far behind everyone else in the new industry. Remind yourself that your unique background might actually be an asset and give you a fresh perspective.
In the end, keep the goal in mind and always have a vision of the kind of life you want to lead and the steps necessary for you to make that happen.
Take the Leap and Discover New Possibilities
Here at Job Connection, we strive to connect people with their next big opportunity. Perhaps it serves as a transition for you or as a way to pay the bills as you continue your education. Depending on where you are on the journey or what you’re looking for, we can help you find the right opportunity for you. It’s our job, after all, to seek out
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