Changing careers isn’t a decision you make overnight. It usually requires a lot of contemplation and back and forth about what the right choice is to make. There’s no reason to panic if you’re someone who’s wanting to switch careers.
Understand that people do it all the time and with the right planning, you too can be happy making a move. Be honest with yourself about your current position and list the reasons why you have a desire to explore new options. Instead of fearing what could be, think of all the positives that may come of it. See what to do if you’re thinking about changing careers.
Talk to a Career Counselor
A good place to start is speaking with a career counselor about your questions and concerns. They do this for a living and are experts in helping people like you come to the right conclusion about starting fresh with a new profession. Go in with an open mind and listen to their advice carefully. Take notes so you can refer back to them at a later date if you’re still unsure what to do. Come to the meeting with questions and observations about your experience with the idea so far.
Take Classes
If you’re wanting to study a new field like psychology, then go online at http://aps.sdcc.edu/ba-in-psychology/ and find classes that will help you better determine if it’s a subject area you’d like to learn more about. There are also classes at local colleges you can take if you prefer being in a physical classroom. No matter your learning style, the idea is to familiarize yourself with the new career option and see if it’s the direction you want to head. This is usually the turning point where professionals decide to move forward or find a different path.
Interview Professionals in the Field
Don’t assume because you read information online and took a few classes that you know what the new career you’re consider entails. It’s a good idea to schedule time to meet and talk with friends, family and acquaintances who work in the field and can show you a day in the life you may be leading in the future. Interviewing professionals in the field will give you a better idea of what the actual job will be like and the requirements for landing a position on your own.
Weigh the Pros & Cons
At some point you’re going to have to make a decision. You can’t go on forever being miserable in your current role and too afraid to make a move to a new career. Sit down and weigh the pros and cons so you can see the ideas and analyze each one. Notice which list is longer and why you think that is. Highlight the notes that are most important to you and mark any deal breakers on either side.
Conclusion
Everyone has the urge to switch jobs once in a while. If you’re serious about it, then take the proper steps that are going to help you get to a new position. This is what to do if you’re thinking about changing careers.
