5 Things You Should Know Before You Switch Careers

Is your job getting on your last nerve? Are you moments away from handing in your resignation? Did someone steal your lunch for the last time? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then listen up, this one’s for you.

Entrepreneurship is at an all-time high, and it seems as though people are switching careers left and right. When you are simply working a job instead of a career, it can get mundane. The money doesn’t even make you happy anymore. Well, bear with me while I get a little philosophical here. It’s because true happiness lies outside of the material things. We, as humans, need a healthy challenge and satisfaction on a professional level. Without that, employment is sure to end, and quickly. It’s easy to read this and jump on the bandwagon, but in no way am I telling you to quit your job. However, what I am saying is, if you no longer feel that your job is a good fit for you and you have a passion for something else, then this is the time when you need to take stock of where you are in life.

Before you make the jump, these are the five things you should know.

1. This transition is going to take some time to adjust to.

Even if you transition into a career you love, you have to realize that this move will take some time, especially if you are an entrepreneur. It will take time to adjust financially, personally, etc. Nothing happens overnight unless you are one of those lucky few that have an unlimited bank account to draw from and a ton of influence in the marketplace. Those things can be worked on but until then, be patient and don’t give up.

1. Have your plan in motion before you make a move.

It’s not enough to have a plan. It needs to already be in motion. Land the job before you quit the one you have. Gain a loyal audience and start making money before you quit. While you’re at it, create a 5-year plan that will help you map out where you are going and what you need to do to get there. This is a crucial step. You want to ensure that you don’t have to go crawling back to the job you left simply because the paycheck covered all of your expenses. The moral of this story is to make a plan, memorize it, hang it up on the wall, and stick to it.

1. If you make a lateral move, and it’s not your passion or purpose, no matter how much money you make, you won’t be happy.

In short, follow your passion and your purpose. That is where true happiness lies. A lateral move is fine if you are moving into an industry that you love. But be certain that you are switching careers for more than the money.

1. Quiz yourself! Ask yourself WHY?

Take stock of exactly who you are. You may need to do a lot of soul-searching here. Ask yourself all the really hard questions to make sure that you are up for the challenge of essentially starting over. What is motivating you to change careers right now and is that “thing” changeable? Do you have what it takes to make your vision come to life? I could go on and on with all of the questions that need answers before you make a move. It all boils down to this one thing, are you cut out for this career move?*

1. If you want to transition into the career you love, make sure you have the skinny on everything it takes to be successful in that field.

There are ups and downs with everything in this life, but if you stick with it, you are bound to see change. The same goes for work. Get comfortably uncomfortable with the good, the bad, and the ugly. The first time something bad happens or doesn’t go your way. Make the decision to make peace with the doors that close in your face. Get over it, literally. Research the ins and outs of your desired industry. Learn everything you need to know about it. Attend seminars and workshops. Read every book you can get your hands on. And talk to someone who is already doing what you would like to do. In short, if you can’t go through the door, build a new house and open your own door!

*Questions to ask yourself before handing in your resignation letter:
Why are you changing careers now?
What have you done to stop you from pursuing your dream career in the past? Have you dealt with that barrier? Can you move on now?
Is this an emotional, logical, or spiritual decision?
Did someone annoy for the last time or is it simply time for you to follow your passion?
Are you no longer challenged in your position?
Have you developed a financial plan to sustain you during this shift?