Thinking of a career change?
Even if you know you ultimately want a different job than the one you have, give your full attention to your current job, and do your best.
Every time you do your job well, you raise your self-esteem and build a good work ethic; in addition, it can also open up opportunities for your desired job down the road.
If you don’t know what job you want or if you don’t know how to get there, don’t convince yourself that it’s not possible for you. Seek advice and open your mind to new ideas. Here is one of my favorite mantras: “There’s always a way”
It’s natural to aspire for a different job or career path, but dedicating yourself wholeheartedly to your present role is a powerful investment in your future. Here is why:
Building Blocks of Success: Regardless of your ultimate career goal, excelling in your current job not only enhances your skills but also boosts your confidence and self-esteem. It sets a precedent for your work ethic and professional standards.
Seeding Opportunities: Remarkable performance rarely goes unnoticed. Doing your best now could open doors to unforeseen opportunities. Your commitment to excellence might catch the eye of mentors, supervisors, or colleagues who could aid your transition to your desired job in the future. Professionalism and dedication are universally valued traits.
Overcoming Mental Barriers: One of the greatest obstacles to success is thinking it’s beyond your reach. Don’t underestimate your capabilities or talk yourself out of aspirations. The first step towards achievement is believing it’s within your reach. Challenge the thought that your goals are unattainable and instead focus on strategies to bridge the gap.
Now, if you absolutely can’t bear one more day at your current role, but you are unsure of your dream job or how to reach it, might be a good idea to seek guidance from mentors, career coaches, or individuals in fields of interest. Embrace new perspectives and ideas; often, the unexplored avenues hold hidden gems.
Remember, each day is an opportunity to refine skills, broaden perspectives, and pave the way toward your desired career.
Looking at your current priorities, try to answer the following questions:
Personal Life:
- What are your current personal commitments, and how might they influence your career choices?
- Are you in a phase where work-life balance is a top priority, or are you more focused on career advancement?
Financial Considerations:
- How does your current financial situation impact your career decisions?
- Are you willing to invest time and resources in acquiring new skills or education for a career change?
Passions and Interests:
- What activities or subjects bring you joy or fulfillment in your personal life?
- How can you incorporate these passions into your professional journey?
Motivations:
- What tasks or activities make you lose track of time because you enjoy them so much?
- Are there aspects of your current or past roles that deeply resonate with your values?
Professional Growth:
- How important is continuous learning and professional development to you?
- What type of challenges or projects motivate you to excel in your work?
Impact and Contribution:
- In what ways do you envision making a positive impact through your work?
- Are you motivated by the idea of contributing to a larger cause or community?
Long-Term Vision:
- Where do you see yourself in the next 5, 10, or 20 years, considering both personal and professional aspects?
- How does your desired career align with your long-term vision for a fulfilling life?
Work Environment:
- What type of work environment brings out the best in you? (e.g., collaborative, independent, structured, flexible)
- How does your preferred work environment align with your career aspirations?
Remember, these questions are meant to prompt self-reflection and provide insights into your priorities and motivations. Take your time to consider each question thoughtfully, and the answers may guide you toward a clearer understanding of your career goals and the necessary steps for change.
