5 Invaluable Tips for Switching Careers To Pursue Your Passion
Now more than ever, people feel encouraged to pursue meaningful careers instead of just collecting checks. Statistics still show, however, that under 20% of people report feeling actively engaged at work. If you feel like your current job is unfulfilling, but you’re not sure where to head next, there are a few steps you can take towards a satisfying work life. From following your curiosity to creating your own business, here are five ways to get started.
1. Follow Your Curiosity
If you’re not sure you have an interest that can turn into a business, don’t be afraid to follow your curiosity and see where it takes you. Often, the phrase “follow your passion” needs to be turned on its head. Discover your passion by following your curiosity; rather than feeling pressured to commit to something unfamiliar, explore what interests you most in the present moment. This approach allows you to determine quickly if it aligns with your interests. Since discovering through experience is often the best way to learn, this method will undoubtedly teach you something you didn’t know before.
2. Get the Necessary Training
If you follow the method above and hit a roadblock, you may need formal training. While some new careers require a degree, many skills can be learned through certification programs, books, or free online videos. If you don’t have anyone in your network who can mentor you in your new area of interest, you might want to find a coach who works with people in your desired field.
3. Update Your Resume
When switching careers, you’ll want to create a new resume with information that is relevant to the new skills required. It can be hard to make your resume stand out with so much competition. Additionally, resumes are commonly evaluated by artificial intelligence and screening software before being reviewed by a human. If this feels overwhelming to you, consider hiring a resume service like Otto Resumes to perfect your resume and put you one step ahead.
4. Create a Business Plan
If you’re thinking about starting your own company, a business plan is the first step to securing funding and putting together a cohesive blueprint. A great business plan will include your mission, company structure, and financial projections. Although you may want to consider a business degree if you don’t already have one, many people start successful businesses without them. What you need more than anything is the ability to persist through adversity and the capacity for self-directed learning.
5. Look for Opportunities
While searching for jobs online is becoming the norm, don’t forget to reach out to your business and social networks and let people know your intentions. Many jobs are found this way, and usually, the personal touch of having a real connection with someone is much more effective than the most well-written email. In addition, consider attending events and finding groups online that relate to your area of appreciation. This will help you find the right people at the right time.
By following some of the tips above, you can begin your journey to a new passion-filled work life. It’s never too late to pursue your dreams as long as you feel motivated and retain your optimism.
