Considering a radical career change? Whether you’re transitioning from finance to film, marketing to medicine or logistics to law, it’s more than just a leap—it’s a commitment to developing the skills you need using the limited time you have. Here’s how to make it work.
Accept the time commitment. Prioritize your new career goals by cutting back on nonessential activities. You might need to skip the Netflix binges and happy hours for a while. But remember, while making sacrifices is necessary, you shouldn’t compromise on health or key relationships.
Pick your focus. Research what’s required in your new field. If formal certification is needed, dedicate your time to essential courses and applications. For fields without strict requirements, maximize independent learning and side gigs.
Layer in learning. Find ways to integrate education and training into your daily routine. This could mean listening to course materials while commuting or reading during downtime. Pro tip: Apps that convert text to speech can be a game-changer. You can listen while your work!
Designate time for immersive learning. Schedule consistent study blocks, like two hours a few nights a week, and a longer session on weekends. Consistency is key to progress and commitment is key to success. If you’ve planned it – do it! Try using a time management technique like pomodoro to help you stick to your challenges and stop procrastinating.
Modify your work schedule. If possible, adjust your work hours to accommodate learning. Consider options like compressed workweeks or part-time roles to free up more time for skill-building.
Overall, check in with yourself at the end of every week. Set goals – what did you plan to do? What have you achieved? What went by the wayside? You can adjust your schedule to suit your way of working but word of warning here – don’t be too lenient or you just won’t reach that goal.
Likewise though, take care to give your self time off. If you’ve reached saturation point take a walk, have a few hours to yourself and reframe.
You’ll find you work much better in the end.
Transitioning to any new role and particularly a new career can be challenging. But you just have to keep focused on what it will feel like when you’ve reached your goal and see yourself in that new role!
Coaching can play a significant part in helping you do that. It will keep you on track, keep you focused, encouraged, motivated and challenged to drive yourself forward.
At the same time, coaching will help you be realistic in your goals and help you to stay mindful and keep a good work-life balance.
That way, no burn out!
Contact me directly if you would like to discuss how my coaching can help you
change your career or develop new skills
I’ve helped 100s of Managers, Executives and CEOs do it – let me help you!
Email me: diane@dsaexecutive.com
Call: 01675 464060
CARPE DIEM – DON’T WASTE THE MOMENT!
Adapted from HBR 30.05.24 Elizabeth Grace