Transitioning means to move from one area to another or to evolve from one state to another. In career planning, a transition can happen because you earned a promotion or because you left one career path and now are seeking another.
There are many reasons people leave a job or career path, a toxic, dysfunctional culture, a downturn in the economy leading to layoffs, or the desire to explore options that seemed out of reach previously.
Here are some beginning steps that will help you identify if it is time for you to reinvent yourself and move closer to that dream job!
- Think about purpose: what will make you WANT to get up and go to work? What do you want to get out of work besides a paycheck?
- What are your interests that you would like to include in that next job?
- And what new skills will you need to learn or current skills that you will need to sharpen in order to make this transition?
Next, think about how to explore that dream job, without making a drastic change. Are there ways for you to learn about the new area without resigning your current position? Try out a couple of these options.
- Find an opportunity to volunteer so you can see firsthand what that dream position you’ve always wanted is actually like. Nonprofit organizations come in all shapes and sizes and with a little effort, you can find a volunteer position that fits.
- Moonlighting might also be an option for you. Part-time or contract gigs in the area that interests you will let you gain experience and a little extra money!
- And for those even more adventurous, consider a co-working retreat either in the US or abroad. Co-working opportunities allow you to combine travel, exploration of new cultures and locations, and the opportunity to gain new work experience. Be sure to find a reputable firm to help you arrange a co-working retreat.
Whatever avenue you choose, know that it is never too late or too early to explore your dream job and start the next phase of your career.