Reasons to Consider a Career Change

If you’re bored, unchallenged or simply dissatisfied with your current job, you might have already started looking for a new position. Consider this, however—is a change of workplace enough, or should you be thinking about a career change, too? If any of the following situations apply to you, getting a new job in your current field might not be enough to satisfy you.

Your Life Situation has Changed

If you started your career as a young single person and are now finding that with a partner and family you no longer have the time or inclination to work long hours in a high demand job, a more “family-friendly” occupation might be in order.

You’re Overstressed

Some people can cope—even thrive—in highly stressful positions, and some people can’t. If you’re in a high-stress field that’s just too much to cope with, you might have to consider a career change simply to preserve your health.

Your Current Work no Longer Interests You

Maybe you once found your work challenging and exciting, but lately you’ve just become bored. You may have chosen a career that wasn’t right for you, and you’re now regretting your decision. If you used to love your work but find that you really can’t stand your job these days, it might be time to consider a career change before you get burned out.

Your Current Career has a Poor Outlook

You want a career that constantly offers opportunities for advancement, but these opportunities have dried up in your current field due to changes in technology or the industry. If you need a job with room for advancement and your current career isn’t providing that, consider finding a new career focus.

Exploring your Career Options

Be cautious when deciding whether or not to change your career. Sometimes it’s hard to tell the difference between hating your job and hating your career. It’s definitely worth taking the time to determine which of these situations applies to you.

If you decide a career change is in order, the next step is choosing a new career focus that will provide you with the job attributes you desire, at the same time as utilizing professional skills you already possess. It’s worth considering whether you have any hobbies that might provide you with a career focus—if you have a hobby that you love more than your current job, it might pave the way for an exciting new job or even your own business.

Also, please review our Tools to Find a Job section.  If you need more help, please consider using a Career Counselor.