If you're dissatisfied with your current job or seeking a better-fitting role, you may be contemplating a career change. This could mean starting anew, a significant undertaking. However, you're not alone in this consideration.

Research from Boostlane indicates that more than one-third of individuals (39%) have transitioned to entirely different industries during their lives, and an additional 37% are open to doing so in the future.

Reasons for contemplating a career shift can vary greatly. Career Coach Leah Lambart from Relaunch Me frequently encounters individuals seeking a change for reasons such as desiring more meaningful or purposeful work aligned with their interests and values, aiming for a better work-life balance—particularly if they're experiencing burnout from extended, relentless hours at their current job—realizing discontent after returning to work following a break, recognizing a mismatch between their chosen course or career path and their personality or interests, aspiring to engage in more creative work, or wanting to contribute positively to the world by assisting others.

Lambart provides examples of individuals who've successfully transitioned to entirely new careers, like a marketer who became a nurse after three years of dedicated full-time study, and an established photographer who shifted to a career in user experience through intensive short courses and internships.

Reasons why you might want to change career

Here are five common reasons why someone might want to change their career:

Passion and Interest

People often seek a career change because they discover a new passion or interest that aligns better with their personal values, skills, and ambitions. They may want to pursue something they are genuinely excited about and feel more fulfilled in their professional life.

Better Work-Life Balance

Some individuals opt for a career change to attain a better work-life balance. This could involve finding a career that allows for more flexible hours, reduced commute time, or less stress, enabling them to spend more quality time with family or engage in personal activities.

Higher Earning Potential

Financial motivations can be a significant factor in changing careers. If a person realizes that their current field or role is limiting their earning potential and they see an opportunity to earn more in a different industry or profession, they may decide to make a change to improve their financial situation.

Skill Development and Growth

A desire for personal and professional growth is a common reason for changing careers. Some individuals seek new challenges and opportunities for skill development that their current career may not provide. They may want to acquire new skills, expand their knowledge, or take on more significant responsibilities in a different career path.

Job Satisfaction and Happiness

Job satisfaction and overall happiness at work are critical factors for career longevity. If someone feels unsatisfied, unfulfilled, or even unhappy in their current job, they may explore new career options that align better with their values, preferences, and personal goals, ultimately leading to a more gratifying and fulfilling work experience.

It's important to carefully consider and evaluate these reasons before making a career change to ensure it aligns with your long-term goals and aspirations.

Embarking on this journey of starting over can be intimidating, making it beneficial to have a well-structured plan and tackle each aspect step by step.

Lambart breaks down the process of changing careers into six essential steps:

Self-assessment

Understand your strengths, motivations, preferred work environment, and the type of work that energizes you.

Explore career options

Research and narrow down career choices that align with your self-assessment results.

Investigate specific roles

Utilize online resources and job listings to understand job responsibilities and required skills for your chosen roles.

Connect with professionals

Engage with individuals working in the field of interest to gain insights through informational interviews, aiding in decision-making.

Select a suitable course

Choose an appropriate course or area of study aligned with your desired field after thorough research and seeking advice from industry professionals.

Financial preparation

Prepare financially for potential pay cuts or breaks, especially if returning to full-time study, necessitating lifestyle adjustments and careful financial planning.

Navigating challenges in a career change requires strategic approaches.

Lack of experience

Be proactive, build a network, and consider internships or volunteer work to enhance employability.

Fear of failure

Acknowledge and overcome self-doubt by reinforcing the reasons for the change through extensive research.

Fear of judgment

Be confident in your decision, understanding that your happiness and fulfillment in your career are paramount.

During a career change, it's crucial to recognize and leverage transferable skills, which constitute 83% of what employers value. These include client and communication skills, problem-solving abilities, time management, and teamwork skills.

Although a career change may seem like a fresh start, you carry valuable skills that can be applied in your new path. Ultimately, with self-assessment, research, and a step-by-step approach, transitioning to a fulfilling role is an achievable goal.