Perhaps you’ve been working in the same field for years. Now, you’re starting to question whether it’s really the right fit for you. Or maybe you’ve recently come back to work after taking some time for maternity leave.
You’ve realized that your career no longer suits your lifestyle with young children. Regardless of your circumstances, you’ve come to the conclusion that it’s time to consider a career change. Many women reach this point, and they need to find a new professional direction that allows them to apply their talents and enjoy genuine satisfaction in their work.
But the thought scares you a little bit. You’re still accustomed to working in your current field, even if you're unsatisfied. You might also have concerns about the financial impact of switching fields and whether or not you’ll be able to advance to a senior role. You may question if you’ll be able to choose a new path that actually fulfills you.
Here are a few guidelines to help you figure out the next chapter of your career.
Reflect on What Lights You Up
First, think about things you genuinely enjoy doing. They don’t have to be specific hobbies or skills. For example, your thoughts might turn to gardening, baking, hosting your friends for dinner parties, researching random topics, working on crafts with your hands, or mentoring other people at the workplace. This is also a good idea to consider the functions of your job that you enjoy most. For example, you might like the collaborative aspect of your job, even if the core operational tasks no longer interest you.
Once you’ve figured out a few things that light you up, think about which careers would allow you to engage in these kinds of tasks. When you have some ideas down, consider which of these career paths would fit best with your lifestyle needs.
Talk to People in These Fields
There’s no better way to learn about the reality of a specific job than by talking to people who do that job! This is called conducting informational interviews. You can reach out to people you know, or connect with people through LinkedIn, to ask questions about their job. Make sure to thank people for their time.
“Test Drive” Some of Your Ideas
You may be able to get a little firsthand experience in a “job” without getting hired. If you’re thinking about starting a business in a specific field, take on one or two client projects to get your feet wet. Ask about volunteering opportunities for organizations similar to the ones you’d like to work for.
Consider the Resources You Have for Support
As you narrow down your options, think about how you would balance your new career endeavors with your current financial resources. Would you be able to rely on a partner or family financially while switching careers? Are you solely responsible for your finances?
These considerations will affect whether or not you can take time off for additional schooling, or whether you may have to keep your current job for a while as you build your new career.
Reach Out for Guidance
Finally, don’t hesitate to reach out for guidance and support as you embark on this new stage in your career. A therapist can help you cope with the emotional aspects of switching careers. You might also want to connect with a mentor, a business coach, or a general career coach for additional guidance.
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Are you a woman who is considering a midlife career change? A therapist can help you find the right path. Contact us to find out more about booking your first session for women’s therapy.