After a few years, or decades, on the job, you may begin to fantasize about making a career switch. The idea may sound appealing, but there are probably quite a few things holding you back. You may believe you are too old, or too established in your career, to make a change. While it is true that moving into a new career will create a steep learning curve, it can also allow you to pursue dreams you have set aside, create a more solid financial future for yourself, or allow you to head to work every day with a renewed sense of purpose.
Your Knowledge is Invaluable
If you have work experience, there is no reason to believe you will start over as an entry-level employee. Even if your work experience is unrelated, you have skills and knowledge that are valuable to your prospective employer. Knowing that you will not need to start over from the beginning should give you the confidence you need to make the change. Many people stay in a career where they feel stuck because they worry that they are unemployable somewhere else. If you do not have a college degree, for example, and moved up through your existing company, you may be uncomfortable with the idea of leaving that company. Work on earning your college degree while you are planning your move. Just as it is never too late to switch your career, it is never too late to go to college. Private student loans make it easy to finance your education. The boost to your confidence, as well as your resume, makes it a worthwhile investment.
Jumping into a New Career Can Boost Your Income
After years in one career or industry, you may find yourself maxed out with promotions and pay, while you continue to take on additional duties because of your long-standing position with the company. Switching careers allows you to shake off the stagnate pay and title. Depending on the industry, you may find you can earn more getting hired as a mid-level employee than you are making at your existing job. Along with that, you will have plenty of room for growth.
Burnout is Real
The idea of moving out of a job that has kept you employed for years may seem risky, but remaining in a job that leaves you feeling overwhelmed, underappreciated, or simply bored, is a bigger risk. Job burnout is a real condition, and if you continue to ignore your dissatisfaction, you may find yourself in a situation where your performance suffers, you become difficult to work with, or you begin making careless mistakes. It is much better to take the risk and leave on your terms with your stellar reputation intact. If you can see the writing on the wall, and know that you will need to leave sooner rather than later, don’t ignore those feelings. It is better to start making plans and looking at other options while you are currently employed. Think about what you would like to do, take some training courses or earn a related certification, or talk with a career counselor. Sometimes the most difficult part of a career transition is taking that first step.