Change Career Without Losing Your Sense of Humour

Changing careers can feel like trying to find a parking spot on a busy street – frustrating, nerve-wracking, and occasionally requiring a little manoeuvring that could be mistaken for a circus act. In fact, nearly 70% of people wish they could switch careers but feel trapped by various barriers. This post will explore the ‘humorously tragic’ obstacles to changing careers and provide fool proof strategies that'll not only help you break through those barriers but also hopefully bring a smile to your face! 

1. Fear of the Unknown  

Ah, the fear of the unknown. It's like staring into a dark, deep hole filled with spiders and wondering if that’s a snake you just saw slither by. How can you combat that?  - Research Your Desired Field: Aren't Google and YouTube fantastic? Dive in, and you might just find that your future career isn’t as terrifying as you imagined.  

- Join Networking Groups: Networking can feel like speed dating without the awkward silences (hopefully). Find your tribe and hear their war stories of career-changing battles.  

- Visualize Success: Picture yourself succeeding, dressed in a cape of confidence as you stomp fear monsters into the ground. You’ll realize that every superhero faces fear.    

2. Financial Concerns  

Changing careers has the potential to be more expensive than a trip to Disneyland with your extended family. Let’s navigate the dollar signs together, shall we?  - Create a Financial Plan: Set a budget. Channel your inner accountant and avoid the sudden urge to splurge on that singing fish plaque.  - Consider Side Hustles: Think of your side hustle as your career’s wingman – not officially part of the plan but there to keep you afloat until you’re ready to dive in!  - Scholarships and Grants: Remember, even superheroes get help occasionally! Look for financial aid options to make your transition smoother and less like a bank heist. 

   3. Skills Gap

  Feeling like you’re missing the secret decoder ring to your dream job? You’re not alone. Here’s how to find your hidden talents:  - Identify Transferable Skills: You’ve probably acquired more than you think that will make you a rock star in your new field.  - Enrol in Training Programs: Online classes offer you great flexibility. Plus, you can join in your pyjama pants if that’s your thing!  - Mentorship: Find a seasoned pro who can guide you through the peculiarities of your intended field. Plus, it helps to have someone to practice your excited face on!    

4. Lack of Support  

Sometimes it feels like you’re climbing a mountain, and everyone else is lounging in a hammock sipping piña coladas. Here’s how to rally your troops:  - Communicate Your Goals: Tell your friends and family what you plan to tackle! Embrace the supportive eye rolls and awkward questions!  - Seek Professional Guidance: Think of a career coach as your personal cheerleader, waving pom-poms of enthusiasm while you tackle your fears.

  5. Comfort Zones 

 Let’s face it: comfort zones can become comas if you’re not careful. Here’s how to stir things up a bit:  - Set Small Goals: Because breaking things down feels less like a death sentence and more like a cute puppy peeking at you from behind the couch!  - Engage in Self-Reflection: This is your moment of zen. Ask yourself why change is needed and how it will improve not just your work but your life.  

  6. Ageism and Stereotypes  Feeling like they’ve put a ‘senior citizens only’ label on your aspirations? It doesn’t have to be that way!  - Highlight Your Experience: Your lived experience is an asset. Channel your inner wise sage and flaunt those years like they’re badges of honour!  - Focus on Skill Development: Emphasize your adaptability like you’re preparing for a dance-off – because you can still bust a move at any age!  

7. Timing  Trying to find the perfect time can feel like waiting for a unicorn to appear. Focus on these aspects: - Assess Your Current Situation: A good career change timing is like catching a train – you may miss it but there will be another one. - Create a Flexibility Plan: Make a back-up plan. Flexibility is vital, so adjust as needed to avoid feeling like you’re stuck in quicksand.

So, What’s Next?  Career changes can be nerve-wracking, but they are not insurmountable. Remember to laugh through the ups and downs, share your thoughts, and reflect on your desires. Comment below with your thoughts or share your career change story – let’s support each other on this wild ride!