Is Changing Careers Worth It

At some point in your life it may hit you that your current field of employment is not headed anywhere. Perhaps you're sick of performing the same tasks day in, day out and you know there’s something more satisfying just around the corner. Maybe you’ve been overlooked for a promotion or a job you know you should have gotten. Perhaps you’re being asked to take on more and more responsibilities without any discussions around increasing your salary or updating your job description taking place.

However, before you jump into any career change it’s essential to give careful thought to the various aspects involved in such a decision. Some of the things you need to consider include:

Will Your Career Move Lead to an Increase or a Decrease in Pay?

When it comes to budgeting, it's critical you factor in this aspect of changing careers. If you have financial commitments, and most of us do, make sure those are covered and you then have enough left over to live on.

Should You Decide To Switch Careers, Will You Have To Relocate In Order To Do So?

This is yet another question you should consider long and hard because it has implications for your family. Can you take on a new role within the same company, or will you have to change employers completely? If you have to relocate, will your family move as well or will you commute, potentially on a weekly basis?

Is The Job Or The Money More Important?

Have you researched what you want to do? Do you think it will make you happy? A wise person once noted that if you love your work, it isn’t work. If you don’t enjoy your new career, chances are you’ll change again, and again, with all the upheavals that go with it.

Are Any Of Your Current Skills Transferable?

Can you utilize any of your existing skills in your new line of work? Some skills like interpersonal and communication skills, management, and technology, are universal. Others may need to be acquired. Are you prepared to do any training required?

What New Training And Skills Sets Will You Need To Acquire?

Make it a priority to research the skills that are in demand for that specific line of work. Will you need new training and certifications? If so, how much time, money, and effort will it take to get these? Some skills can be picked up on the job but in some roles, you’ll need specific qualifications and certifications. Will the company pay for these or are you going to need them to get the job in the first place? To get a job as a Fire Inspector for example you need to have, or obtain, this certification first.

Will A New Career Add Value To Your Life?

If you are unhappy with your current career, take action. Be courageous and find one that will make you happy. Otherwise, you may go through life wondering, "What if...?" By the same token, understand that your decisions could make or break you financially. Make them wisely!