9 answers
Olivia
Student
1
Question
Updated
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What if half way through my career I decided it’s not really what I want what do I do then?
What if half way through my career I decided it’s not really what I want what do I do then.
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9 answers
Benoy Sheth
Human Resources professional
1
Answer
Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
Updated
Benoy’s Answer
It's quite admirable that you've embarked on a journey towards your goals, and I have full faith in your ability to see it through to the end! Remember, you began this journey for a reason, and completing it will not only boost your courage and confidence, but it will also grant you a sense of accomplishment. Plus, it's always good to have a backup plan in case your future endeavors don't go as expected.
Of course, never hesitate to chase your passions and interests, but consider wrapping up your current mission first. In doing so, you'll ultimately embark on your next adventure with a stronger foundation and an uplifted spirit. Keep up the fantastic work, and remember that each step of the way, you're growing stronger and more capable!
If it is an education course that you have started based on your career selection, pls complete the course instead of leaving it midway
If it is a job that you have started in a field that no longer interests you, complete your probation/ sufficient time in the role before leaving it to pursue something else
Of course, never hesitate to chase your passions and interests, but consider wrapping up your current mission first. In doing so, you'll ultimately embark on your next adventure with a stronger foundation and an uplifted spirit. Keep up the fantastic work, and remember that each step of the way, you're growing stronger and more capable!
Benoy recommends the following next steps:
Binu Nair
Director of Food Safety and Quality
2
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Binu’s Answer
Its never too late to follow your interests however keep in mind time and money. Once you know what your interest is, reach out to people who work in that field.
Erin Coppenbarger, MS, RD, LD
Registered Dietitian / Maternal and Infant Health Manager
2
Answers
Saint Peters, Missouri
Updated
Erin’s Answer
This isn't really advice, but more of encouragement. This happens to SO many people! I think 18 is young to figure out exactly what you want to do - you aren't really exposed to all the job possibilities at that age to truly know what you want to do. Sometimes the benefits of a job are something to take into account. But definitely don't stay in a place where you aren't happy!
Phillip Elekwa
Veterinarian
1
Answer
Lagos, Nigeria
Updated
Phillip’s Answer
I would advise you to finish up as no knowledge gained is utterly useless.
You can make a career switch after finishing and doing well in this particular one.
You can make a career switch after finishing and doing well in this particular one.
Kate Ashton
Social Work
4
Answers
Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Updated
Kate’s Answer
You consider what you do want to do next. What would make you happy? What would you be interested in doing almost every day of the week. And if you cant work it out just yet, remember that its ok not to have every aspect of your life workes out, its ok to evolve and change directions. Find an activity that makes you happy and build on that
Marlene H
Consultant
3
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Marlene’s Answer
When considering a career change, the initial steps might seem challenging and intimidating. To successfully transition, it's essential to take a proactive approach. Identify the skills you've acquired in your current career that can be applied to your desired field. Pursuing relevant certifications can help you stand out among other candidates. Additionally, partnering with a recruiter who specializes in your target industry can provide valuable assistance in finding temporary work opportunities. This will allow you to gain hands-on experience and enhance your resume for future job applications.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
4149
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hey there, Olivia!
Just wanted to remind you that if you're midway through your career and suddenly realize it's not what you really want, don't worry! It's never too late to switch directions. Plenty of folks have shifted careers at different points in their lives, and there are numerous steps you can follow to smoothly transition into a fresh career path.
First off, engage in some Self-Reflection: Spend a little time pondering what you genuinely desire from your career. Think about your hobbies, principles, and talents. What do you love about your current job, and what parts could you do without? Grasping these elements can assist you in pinpointing new career paths that better match your dreams and ambitions.
Next, Research New Opportunities: Once you've got a clearer idea of what you want in a new career, start exploring various sectors and roles that might be a good match for you. Check out the qualifications and skills these positions demand, as well as any extra education or training you might need to make the switch successfully.
Don't forget about Networking: Connect with professionals in the sectors or roles that catch your eye. Networking can offer priceless insights into different career paths and might even open doors to potential job openings. Attend industry gatherings, join professional groups, and link up with individuals who can provide guidance and support as you steer your career change.
Seek Guidance: Think about getting advice from career counselors or coaches who can help you investigate your options and craft a strategic plan for a successful transition. They can offer valuable tips on crafting your resume, preparing for interviews, and developing skills tailored to your new career targets.
Skill Development: Depending on the new career path you pick, you might need to learn additional skills or qualifications. This could mean pursuing more education, earning certifications, or gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteer work.
Financial Planning: Switching careers might affect your finances, especially if it means initially accepting a lower salary or investing in more education. It's crucial to think about how this transition will affect your financial status and make suitable plans to ensure stability during the transition period.
Embrace Flexibility: Be ready to start at a beginner's level in your new field if needed. While it might seem like a step back at first, it can be a vital stepping stone towards establishing a successful long-term career in your newly chosen field.
Remember, changing careers is a journey that requires time and effort. It's vital to tackle this transition with patience and determination, as well as a readiness to adapt to new challenges that come your way.
For further reading, I recommend these top 3 authoritative reference publications:
Harvard Business Review
The Muse
Forbes
May you be showered with blessings!
James Constantine Frangos.
Just wanted to remind you that if you're midway through your career and suddenly realize it's not what you really want, don't worry! It's never too late to switch directions. Plenty of folks have shifted careers at different points in their lives, and there are numerous steps you can follow to smoothly transition into a fresh career path.
First off, engage in some Self-Reflection: Spend a little time pondering what you genuinely desire from your career. Think about your hobbies, principles, and talents. What do you love about your current job, and what parts could you do without? Grasping these elements can assist you in pinpointing new career paths that better match your dreams and ambitions.
Next, Research New Opportunities: Once you've got a clearer idea of what you want in a new career, start exploring various sectors and roles that might be a good match for you. Check out the qualifications and skills these positions demand, as well as any extra education or training you might need to make the switch successfully.
Don't forget about Networking: Connect with professionals in the sectors or roles that catch your eye. Networking can offer priceless insights into different career paths and might even open doors to potential job openings. Attend industry gatherings, join professional groups, and link up with individuals who can provide guidance and support as you steer your career change.
Seek Guidance: Think about getting advice from career counselors or coaches who can help you investigate your options and craft a strategic plan for a successful transition. They can offer valuable tips on crafting your resume, preparing for interviews, and developing skills tailored to your new career targets.
Skill Development: Depending on the new career path you pick, you might need to learn additional skills or qualifications. This could mean pursuing more education, earning certifications, or gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteer work.
Financial Planning: Switching careers might affect your finances, especially if it means initially accepting a lower salary or investing in more education. It's crucial to think about how this transition will affect your financial status and make suitable plans to ensure stability during the transition period.
Embrace Flexibility: Be ready to start at a beginner's level in your new field if needed. While it might seem like a step back at first, it can be a vital stepping stone towards establishing a successful long-term career in your newly chosen field.
Remember, changing careers is a journey that requires time and effort. It's vital to tackle this transition with patience and determination, as well as a readiness to adapt to new challenges that come your way.
For further reading, I recommend these top 3 authoritative reference publications:
Harvard Business Review
The Muse
Forbes
May you be showered with blessings!
James Constantine Frangos.
Faraz Farooq
Account Manager
5
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Faraz’s Answer
Hi Olivia, great question as this is very common. Before you make the decision, I'd dome some self-reflection: what is it you don't like? Why don't you like it? What changed as this is something you did like at one point?
This not to say you would be wrong to change careers, but you want to make sure you answer these questions before making the final decision. In addition, perhaps it's not the career you hate but the place you're working at that makes you hate the career. Make sure you think about all of this.
Let's say you answer these and you truly do want to change your careers. I would then ask what is it I want to learn more about and what would make me happy or excited to get out of bed for, let that guide you. In addition see if you can ask people or shadow the people who are already in the career you want to do.
This not to say you would be wrong to change careers, but you want to make sure you answer these questions before making the final decision. In addition, perhaps it's not the career you hate but the place you're working at that makes you hate the career. Make sure you think about all of this.
Let's say you answer these and you truly do want to change your careers. I would then ask what is it I want to learn more about and what would make me happy or excited to get out of bed for, let that guide you. In addition see if you can ask people or shadow the people who are already in the career you want to do.
Gladys C
Quality Assurance Auditor
1
Answer
Skokie, Illinois
Updated
Gladys’s Answer
If halfway through your career and you decide that the career isn’t a good fit for you, then you can switch careers. You would think about what do you feel most passionate about doing and re-evaluate what you want to do and go for it. You would think about your skills, work experience, education, wants as far as the type of work you want to do (part-time or full-time), and look for opportunities that offer the type of career you would like. I would also suggest you connect with mentors or people doing the career(s) you are thinking to switch to and ask them questions about the new career like what a day of work in the career is like, what type of skills and education do you need to be successful at the career. If changing your career you would also want to change or update your resume to fit the type of career that you are seeking. Best wishes to you.