What Does it Take to Start a New Career?

Starting over is never easy. But when you are at a place in your life where you feel called to make a change, starting over can be a blessing in disguise. It can take a lot of courage and determination, but the end result can mean leading a happier and more fulfilled life. When it comes to major career transitions, there can often be fear and concerns around financial insecurity, time management and career stability. Seek clarity with yourself around what you are willing to risk and how you can set yourself up for success. Do you have savings to fall back on? Or are you in a position where you could stay in your current job for a set period of time while pursuing further education to help you get your dream job? There is plenty to consider. 

Explore Your Options 

If you are looking to make a major change in your life, the first thing that you will need to do is discover what inspires you. Where do you want to go in life? How do you want to spend your time? Do you love connecting with other people or are you more interested in analytical and technical careers? Some people will know the answer right away and can easily picture their dream job. For other people, the picture can appear less clear. It can be hard to pinpoint where you want to be and what kind of work would make you happy. 

Look at Your Priorities 

Is financial security a top priority for you? Maybe it should be factored into your career change. How about spending time with family? Consider looking for a career where you can balance your home life with your work commitments. Discovering and understanding your priorities is quite personal, so be sure not to rush the process. 

Assess Your Strengths 

Music executive and creative type Lou Adler argues that there are four main types of jobs based on diverse strengths. Which of these categories do you identify with? 

• Thinkers 
• Builders 
• Improvers 
• Producers 

Thinkers come up with brilliant and unique ideas. Builders turn those ideas into something concrete. Improvers then build upon the product or service to make it as great as it can be. Producers execute the plan in a repeatable way, delivering the end product. Depending on your strengths and interests, you may find that a particular job category is best suited for you. 

Choose Your Industry 

Is there a particular industry that you have always dreamed of being a part of? Are you curious to explore something new, but not sure where to start? Consider examining career options in human services, health care, accounting, technology, law or human resources. 

If you love uplifting and supporting others, exploring a career in human resources could be a great place to start. Taking a human resources program provides you with the foundational skills and insight that you need to succeed in the field. You could also look into life coach training or perhaps an education assistant course. Choosing a career in human services can help you have a profound and positive impact on the lives of others. Maybe mental health has a special place in your heart, but you have never thought about turning that into a career. Completing your mental health and addictions support worker certificate program could open the door to a rewarding and fulfilling life. Health care is another phenomenal industry to look at. Consider looking at a nursing unit clerk program to build your administrative expertise and medical knowledge. Of course, there are lots of other areas where administrative expertise can come in handy. Perhaps a legal assistant course would be the first fit for you. 

Are you good with numbers and statistics? A certified accounting program is a phenomenal way to play off your strength. If you hate numbers but love technology, maybe a UX design course would be a good fit for your interest. You could learn all about the marriage between user experience and user interface, in order to foster more positive consumer engagement and loyalty. Whichever industry and career path you choose to follow, remember the importance of having clear and efficient communication with your colleagues and clients. A business communication course is a terrific way to get added support and skill development in this area.

Take the First Step 

Starting over can be challenging, but you will never know how happy it could make you until you try it. Spend time researching and exploring your options before settling on a career path that feels right for you. 

Written by CJ McGillivray