We spend more time working than any other activity, so if we’re in the wrong career, it can seriously impact our quality of life. While quiet quitting and rage applying are taking off and most people no longer want to overstretch themselves for a job, we also don’t want the hours we do spend working to be unhappy. If you’re stagnating professionally, it might be time to consider being your own boss or figuring out what the best career is for you.
“If you ask yourself, ‘should I stay or should I go?’ you are already in the exploration phase of a career change,” Kelsea Warren, founder of The Seamless Coach.
Assess your strengths
Take a skills assessment or speak with a career counselor to better understand your strengths and interests,” suggests Michael Samuel, founder of CEOMichaelHR. “This can help you identify potential career paths that align with your skills and passions.”
Use your imagination
“Imagine that you could pursue any career,” Dr. Manly suggests. “Journal about that career and what it looks like, on a pragmatic level, to pursue it.”
Be realistic
Shifting careers may take some planning. “If you determine that your ideal career is feasible, create a pro/con list about the career path to gain clarity on what the shift would entail,” Dr. Manly says.
Reach out
“Connect with individuals in the industries or job roles you are interested in,” Samuel suggests. “They can provide valuable insights and may be able to connect you with job opportunities.”
Set goals
Dr. Manly suggests setting one specific macro goal (“I want to shift in a career in graphic design by the end of this year”) and then supporting it with at least five specific micro goals, which might look like creating a new resume or taking a course.
Get support
If you can, obtain the support of your family and friends to encourage you to pursue your goals. “If you meet resistance along the way, it’s important to self-reflect, and you may want to obtain professional support such as psychotherapy to support your journey,” Dr. Manly recommends.