How to Decide to Change Careers

Making the decision to change careers can be daunting in any economy, but in times of uncertainly or instability, it's even more important than ever to be sure you are making the right decision. Whether you've been at the same job for years or are just starting out in the business world, you might feel that you are ready for a change of career. What is essential is to figure out why you are feeling that way and if your ideas for a new career path are solid or just wishful thinking.

Instructions

1. Ask yourself the hard questions. Many people dread going to work each day and spend long hours wishing for some new dream job that would make the workday more enjoyable, but not all of them have the right idea. Asking yourself some of these questions will put you on the right track toward making a good career decision:
   Am I doing my best at my current job?
   Do I feel valued at work?
   Do I feel that my work makes a difference?
   Am I dreading every Monday morning?
   What would make my current job better?
   Would I quit my job if I won the lottery?
   These questions can help you evaluate whether a career change is right for you. Sometimes, you are in the right career, but you have grown complacent or your work environment isn't the best for you. Other times, it's clear that you need to change careers. Make sure you know the difference and understand your reasons for wanting the change. If you know that you want something completely different, then it might be time to pursue a career change.

2. Research your desired field. If you already have an idea of what you want to do with the rest of your life, take some time to do the homework. Is the career you think you want a field that is growing, stagnant or in decline? While you may be interested in a particular career, you might be disappointed to find that the demand in that arena is nonexistent. Better to do your homework ahead of time and make the necessary adjustments than to forge ahead with education plans only to find yourself unable to get the job you've always wanted.

3. Evaluate your opportunities and needs. How much training will you need to switch to that career? How long will it take you to recoup the money you have spent to train for your new career? These are important considerations when you are trying to decide about a career change. If you really want to be an attorney, and you never finished your undergraduate degree, you have a long road ahead. It may be worth it to you, even with the time and money you need to invest, but also, it may not. If you find that you can't follow your exact career dream, you may be able to find another way to enter that field that better suits your abilities or financial status. If you can't apply the time, money and energy required to become an attorney, you might be able to be a paralegal. There are always opportunities that will meet your needs.