As a career changer, I can tell you that switching is the single most scary thing in the entire world. And I am not even exaggerating. A career change can be so frightening because many times you are leaving certainty for uncertainty.
It gets even more difficult when you are not sure what you should switch to or should be doing with your life. It can be overwhelming with you constantly asking yourself if everything is okay at home.
While there is no set in stone answer, I have found these frameworks for thinking about the process useful on this journey.
Accountability:
See, if they leave me and you from today till tomorrow to start something new, we won’t. I don’t know about you but I am lazy af. That’s why the best thing to do when trying to change a career is to surround yourself with like-minded people who are also trying to escape. That way you can all trade ideas, motivation, and make sure that you don’t slack too much on changing career. Because left to my bullshit, I am going to sleep my life away.
Action:
I don’t know about you but I plan for Africa to make up for my inaction. The truth is that clarity comes after doing and not before. Therefore, when trying to switch, it’s important to be familiar with the industry you want to go into. You can volunteer your spare time to test the waters so you understand quickly if this is really your thing, or you should abandon the mission. It also makes it easier to break in once you fully decide to transition.
It’s only by doing that you know what works or doesn’t.
Interpersonal relationships:
Don’t let anyone lie to you that famzing is bad. In grownup speak, this is called networking. See, when you are going somewhere new, your C.V is not going to be impressive so therefore you must famz network with the industry leaders. Jobs aren’t littered on the road but they are attached to people therefore you must seek them out. What you need at this point is the experience from your old job and the enthusiasm to face and conquer a new challenge.
Remember that closed mouths don’t get fed.
In case you missed this Zikoko goodness about resigning from a job, you should read this.
