Introduction:

What keeps many of us from making that career change?

Yep, you guessed it! MONEY!

Our current job might have lost its appeal, but it's stable, secure, reliable, and steady.

There are many things that go through our minds when we consider alternatives...

What would happen to our income?

To our lifestyle?

To our family?

But would leaving or changing careers really be that terrible?

Is it possible to fill our days with more meaning, and to earn as much as we do now?

Is it possible to find purposeful work and not care if it pays us less?

It's not uncommon to feel trapped in a job that no longer aligns with our passions or values.

You might find the pull to do something more meaningful creates a conflict... do I live my purpose OR accept the practicalities of life?

Does stepping into a career change mean sacrificing one for the other?

Will you take a cut in pay?

One of the misconceptions about career change is the assumption that it requires a cut in pay. Who says? Many people who have switched careers have believed in their worth have walked into jobs where they earned more than they did before - and worked less hours! Not only that, but starting their own businesses and becoming their own boss has reaped the rewards in the long term - more than they could ever have achieved working for someone else. What are those other benefits really worth? Personal satisfaction, better work-life balance, and opportunities for growth? The idea that you WILL have to earn less is a belief that you can shift.

Might you need less?

The other part about changing jobs is the likelihood of "needing less". Moving from a burnt out teacher to owning my own business I spent less! I no longer felt this unhappy emptiness inside me, I no longer felt the pull to go out and buy new clothes, new furniture, new shoes - anything material - because I didn't feel so empty on the inside, I didn't have to look eternally to fill the gap.

You can look honestly at your budget and your lifestyle. What could you change if you really wanted more peace at work? What could you sacrifice now, knowing it would be better for you, your family, your wellbeing, in the long run? Being honest about our reality is key to admitting what we are willing to get rid of (or not!) and what is really holding us back. Hint...there will be some deep rooted beliefs here that are holding you back! Perhaps things like "I can't sell my current house and buy a smaller one because the neighbours will think I've failed". Unhelpful thoughts like that!

Wealth Vs Health?

It's crucial to remember that health reigns as the ultimate treasure. While financial stability can provide comfort and security, it's our physical and mental well-being that truly enriches our lives. Good health forms the foundation upon which we can build and enjoy the fruits of our labor. Without it, what is the use of money anyway?

Exit Strategy?

Planning and preparation play pivotal roles in mitigating financial stress during this transition. You don't have to leave in one giant leap without a carefully planned Exit Strategy. Taking small steps every day can lead you to your dream life sooner than you think. The difference a plan can make to your overall wellbeing is huge! Knowing I was planning my exit from the classroom did wonders for my moral! When I was feeling low and stressed out, I could think about my dream and know I was closer each day to getting there. For a worksheet on an effective Exit Strategy, request it here!

Are your ducks in a row?

I am a firm believer that your ducks do NOT have to be in a row before you start your transition. Our minds are like an overprotective parent. Think of those helicopter parents that dictate their poor child's every move!! This overprotective parent is looking for danger at every turn. It doesn't want you to feel uncomfortable, to struggle, to look bad, or to make mistakes. It wants the easy life, to stay in the comfort zone (aka...the Familiar Zone!), and to not take risks.

Growth and comfort do not co-exist

- Ginni Rometty -

You will always grow when you feel out of your comfort zone. You will take more action when you NEED to - rather than coming up with all the excuses as to why you haven't yet.

The saying goes - if you want to take the island, then you have to burn your boats. That way, you have no plan B. This doesn't mean you keep hammering an unsuccessful strategy, more that you keep your eye on the prize, your goal, with no going back, until you get what you are aiming for.

Embracing a career that aligns with your passions and values can ultimately lead to a more fulfilling life, both professionally and personally.

Remember, the road to a meaningful career is paved with determination, strategic thinking, and the willingness to embrace change.

So, why not take that step towards a brighter future?

Pam is a former burnout teacher & single-parent. Now as an NLP, Hypnosis and Time Line Therapy® Trainer & Coach, she’s giving women their power back - let's all design lives we've always dreamed of!