Big Energy... for Career Changers

Change can be intimidating, especially after years of climbing the corporate ladder. What happens when you realize the ladder you've been climbing is leaning against the wrong wall?

If you’re feeling stuck or unhappy in your career, it’s time to harness your big energy and channel it into creating a life that truly reflects your passions. Let's define what you want to change and tackle the barriers that can hold you back.

Identify Your Wall

Before you make a change, it's crucial to pinpoint what isn’t working. Reflect on these questions:

• What aspects of my job make me feel unengaged or unhappy?

• How do my values compare to the path I'm currently on?

• What dreams have I left behind, and what stopped me from pursuing them?

  
  

Gaining clarity on your feelings can help identify your next steps.

Define Your Vision

After understanding your current dissatisfaction, it's vital to define your desired future. Clarity is empowering.

• What would a fulfilling career look like for me?

• If I had no financial limits, what dream job would I choose?

• What skills or talents come naturally to me?

  
  

Creating a vision board or a personal mission statement can solidify your aspirations. Research shows that visualization can enhance motivation and help you stay committed. Use images that inspire you and keep them where you will see them often.

Overcoming Fear and Uncertainty

Fear of change is one of the biggest challenges for career changers. It's common to feel paralyzed by uncertainty. Remember, pursuing what you love can be more empowering than running from what you dislike.

• What fears are stopping me from making a change?

• What is the worst-case scenario if I make this change?

  
  

The best advice I have ever received was this: The best way to overcome fear of change is to become comfortable the worst case outcome.

Set Actionable Goals

With a clearer vision and a plan to address your fears, it's time to create actionable goals. Use the SMART criteria: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Here are some prompts to consider:

• What small steps can I take in the next week to explore my interests?

• Who can I connect with to learn about my desired career?

• What skills should I start developing to prepare for my new path?

  
  

For instance, if you're interested in digital marketing, consider taking an online course over the next month. Breaking goals into smaller tasks makes the change feel less overwhelming.

Celebrate Small Wins

Finally, celebrate every milestone on your journey, no matter how small. Recognizing your progress is vital for motivation. Consider the following:

• What small achievements have I made during this process?

• How can I reward myself for my efforts?

• How can sharing my journey inspire others?

  
  

Acknowledging milestones reinforces your commitment to your new direction, helping to strengthen your resolve as you move forward.

Embracing Your New Path

Mastering a new skill requires 1000 hours, as the brain needs practice to develop new neural connections. Initially, taking small steps in the right direction might seem difficult, but eventually, your brain will integrate these behaviors as the new norm. Vision boards are a great mechanism to keep your dreams and goals in constant attention. Keep them somewhere you will see them every day.

Changing careers involves self-reflection, clarity, actionable steps, and resilience. Remember, it’s not just about escaping an unsatisfactory situation; it’s about pursuing a brighter future full of opportunities. Embrace the big energy within you, fueling it with intention and belief in your potential.

It's never too late.