Should you Change Your Career?

Do you Have the Right Set of Skills?

Your new job equals new skills and experience. Do you have what it takes to complete your duties? If you change your career, you might need to study further and gain a new set of skills. Don’t stress though. There are plenty of courses available to you, even if you don’t have matric.

The Job Market

The job market can be brutal. Some people spend years trying to start a career. When you step out of your job, you need to ensure that you secure an in-demand career. Do plenty of research on your potential field. Consider the pros and cons of what the job has in store for you.

Finances

If your current job doesn’t pay well, it makes sense that you want to move on to something better. But if your preferred career pays less, will you be able to survive on less? Before you leave your job, you should be financially stable to make the switch. Take this time to save up or invest in a financially sound future. 

Moving up Instead of Dropping out

No one wants to stay in an entry level position. And that’s okay. But instead of leaving your job, you could move up in your career. Work with your managers. Ask them how you can improve and move up the corporate ladder. Your dream job might be waiting for you at the top.

Mental Health

Mental health is often overlooked in the workplace. Employees become stressed and filled with anxiety. If your career is impacting your mental health, you need to take a step back. Take leave or speak to a professional. Find out if you simply need a break, or if it’s time to start over.

Physical Impact

Have a physically demanding job where you work outdoors or at a warehouse? Well over the years, your body may not be able to keep up with your duties. Ignoring aches and pains could create life-long illnesses. Speak to your employer. You might be more fit to train new staff. In this way, you don’t even need to leave the company. This could be the start of an office career.

Your Responsibilities

Whether you’re young or old, you can’t escape your responsibilities. So when you want to change careers, you need to consider how it will impact your life, finances and family. Settling in takes time. There are long hours and late nights ahead of you. You need to have the right mindset and know that it will affect those around you.

Same Industry, Different Job

When changing careers, people think of moving to an entirely different industry. Like going from accounting to photography. But if new opportunities or a fatter wallet is what you want, you don’t have to look too far. Take a look at jobs in your field, company or even department. You might have the basic skills to give you a headstart.

A Back-up Plan

Even if you don’t want to think about it, you need to ask yourself “what if it doesn’t work out?”. You must have a back-up plan in case you fail. Ensure that you have a few jobs available to you. And if you want to go back to your old job, make sure you don’t burn any bridges.

Is Changing Careers a Good Idea?

Change is good, even when it comes to your job. We learn and evolve each day. So looking for new opportunities is great. It proves you want to learn more and won’t settle for less. You have your goals and ambitions, and every right to pursue your passion. 

The Bottom Line

At the end of the day, it all comes down to whether you are ready or not. Being ready doesn’t just mean being financially stable. You need to have the right mindset, skills and determination. Without it, you could set yourself up for failure. Once you’re ready and armed with a plan, you’ll have a successful career and a bright future waiting for you.