Career Change Can Be a Good Thing - Even if You Don't Want It

“For many people a job is more than an income – it’s an important part of who we are.  So a career transition of any sort is one of the most unsettling experiences you can face in your life.”—Paul Clitheroe

The decision to change careers can be seen either as a new beginning or the worst thing that could possibly happen.  You may be transitioning to a new career by choice, like when you re-enter the workforce.  Or, it may be an unexpected change, such as when you’re laid off.  Whatever the reason for it, your attitude about your career transition will affect the outcome.  If you view it as opening a door instead of closing one, you’ll have a better chance at attracting a new career that’s in alignment with what you want for yourself.

In making a career shift it helps to know that you are not alone.  The average person today will switch careers 5-7 times in their lifetime.   The stats are higher for people leaving their employment for a different employer. 

And for those who are employed only about 13% of workers are doing work they feel passionate about.  So you see, you are not alone in making a transition from one career to another.   

Here are six (6) good reasons for a career transition: 

1.      Branching Out:  Diversification has its advantages in today’s workplace, especially since careers aren’t as linear as they were in the past.  Now more than ever you are able to design your career in tune with your interests, talents and dreams.  Models of successful career shifters are Benjamin Franklin, Leonardo Di Vinci, and Maya Angelou. And beneath the radar of celebrity are multitudes of other Renaissance Souls who have wide interests and talents. 

 

2.   New Adventures:  Change gives you the opportunity for new beginnings, new outcomes, and magic to spread your wings.  It creates the space to answer the call to what’s next for you.  Even when things may not be looking up, there is light at the end of the tunnel.  

3.      Network Expands:  Changing career roles helps you increase your network and build relationships.  Building and sustaining your network keeps your pulse on what’s happening in your present niche as well as expanding your knowledge of what’s outside of your current career role. 

4.      Builds Confidence:  Within the career transition zone there are numerous variables evoking both positive and negative perspectives.  Confidence waivers into doubt.  Doubt gives way to confidence.  Ups and downs are part of growth and discovery.  However, your passion and desire to accept the challenge of doing what it takes to reach your next level of transformation are more powerful than fear. 

5.      Opens More Doors:  By learning a new career you will gain expertise in a different occupation.  Thus giving you a broader spectrum of job opportunities. Employers see you as someone who is adaptable to different roles and willing to expand your skills.  It gives you flexibility and opens more doors.  It could even be a door to becoming an entrepreneur by starting your own business. 

6.   It’s an Investment: The time and monies spent in making a career transition are an investment.  It is putting monies into your most valuable asset – YOU.  Yes, it does take time, effort, and commitment to want to transition into a career that is calling you next.  But it is the best investment in being true to yourself and those around you. 

Trust your heart and inner guidance system as you move forward contemplating a career transition.  They speak on your behalf to help you nurture and grow and have an extraordinary life.  As Joseph Campbell says, “Follow your bliss and the universe will open doors where there were only walls.”

My wish for you is:

Be all you can be
Doing what you love while
Living an extraordinary life

Theresa Maria Napa, CPCC – LOACC
Career Transition & Leadership Coach – Speaker
www.RightTrackCoaching.com

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