Career change is a very serious decision. According to a study by the Economic Graph, people tend to change their careers five to seven times during their lifetime and millennials move on an average of 2.85 jobs in their first five years in the workforce. Change, in general, is considered to be normal and necessary to evolve and grow. However, when it comes to one’s career, it is probably one of the most difficult decisions to make.
If you are thinking about moving from one industry to another, then this article is for you. Here is a checklist of things to consider before changing careers.
Dissatisfaction –
If you do what you love, you’ll never work a day in your life – Mark Anthony.
If the industry you work in is not up to your expectations or you are dissatisfied with the work you have been doing, then a career change may be a good choice for you. It is better to move on than stay put in a place that does not interest you.
Experience –
Unless you try something new, you will never know what works for you or what is a better option. Sometimes a career change might bring you closer to your true calling. Working in different fields would also help you establish your value, boost your self esteem and showcase your real, overall worth.
Taking Control –
No one understands your needs better than you. A career change can also help you take control of your future and go after your dream job, even if it is not the field in which you initially started working. Take charge of your career and do not let anyone else make that decision for you.
Long hours for no rewards –
Working long hours can not only affect your overall productivity but is also detrimental to your health. If the reward for working long hours is not worth it in the end, maybe it is time for a serious change in your career.
Thirst for more knowledge –
If the learning curve in your current job has slowed down and there is not much for you to learn and grow, a career change could help you quench the thirst for more information and knowledge. Research has shown the learning arch tends to be fast paced in the beginning of a career or a new job and slows down over the course of the next three years. Changing your career gives you the opportunity to grow and learn at a rapid pace for another three years in the new job.
Lack of passion –
The passion that once pulled you towards this job has now all but disappeared. Although no one expects to be fascinated at work all day every day, if you find your whole job, organization and career boring then it is time for a change. Passion cannot be faked and if the hands on the clock seem to go slower each day, maybe a change in career may be the energizer you need in life.
Comfort Zone –
If your job no longer challenges you mentally and physically and you find yourself in a comfort zone, find a new career. A job with little to no challenge is disastrous for your career, personal development and happiness.
You need a change –
Change is not always a bad thing and many a time, priorities change through the years. At such circumstances when your priorities have changed or your needs have expanded, a change in your career could open new doors in your life.
Sometimes a career change may be the step required to lead a happy and satisfied life.
