Posted October 20th, 2015
By Guest Blogger
When I left home for college, I was convinced that my calling was to become a teacher. I had been preparing for it my whole life. From forcing my little brothers into my make-shift classroom in the basement every day during summer vacations all the way up to job shadowing my favorite elementary school teacher as part of my senior project in high school, there was never a doubt in my mind that I would spend my life in a classroom.
Whoops. My mistake!
My time as a teacher was short lived. At 23 years old, now a Military Spouse and mother, I took a long hard look at myself in the mirror one day and realized... I had been wrong. I wasn't happy and I needed a change. Making the decision to redefine who I was as a person and as a professional was scary, but necessary. After spending so much time preparing for a certain career, we also don't want to feel like that time was wasted. But how does the Thomas Edison saying go? "I haven't failed. I just found 10,000 ways it won't work."
Ready to change careers? Use these tips to make a successful transition.
Step 1: Admit that you're unhappy.
No. I don't mean admit it to yourself. If you're reading this, then you've already done that. Now, I want you to tell the people who love you most. For me, it was my husband and mom. You are going to need encouragement and support as you embark on this new journey. Don't be embarrassed. Honesty is the best policy. You'll thank me later.
Step 2: Decide what makes you happy.
Most people don't realize this, but many hobbies and interests can translate into meaningful careers. For example, after my son was born I discovered my love for being behind the camera. Eventually (with the help of my friends and family), I realized I would be happier working as a photographer than as a teacher. Talk to your spouse and friends about your interests and cross reference those against career paths. They'll intersect somewhere. I promise!
Step 3: Become educated.
You didn't think it would be that simple, did you? I didn't just wake up and decide to be a photographer and book 10 weddings! No! I had to have the education and skill set to back-up my untapped talents for photography. As a mother, and a member of a military family that is constantly on the move, I went the online route and I am so glad that I did! Not only did I receive amazing photography training, but I learned how to start my own photography business! The best part: I have an exciting and lucrative career without any debt! Learn more by visiting our website at www.Ed4Career.com.
Step 4: Create a plan on how you can make money doing what makes you happy.
Whether your plan is to secure meaningful employment or go into business for yourself, creating a plan is a vital step. Where do you want to work? What hours do you want to work? How much money do you need to make? These are all wonderful questions to answer for yourself before walking into your first interview. When I finished school, I wanted to become an entrepreneur and - WOW - was I surprised at how rewarding it felt to launch my own photography business! I couldn't believe how much I had learned from my Photography Entrepreneur online courses, and made the student to small business owner transition so easily. After receiving the right education, creating my 5-year business plan was a breeze, and within a year of opening up shop... I was making a profit! Leave your fears at the door and take a chance!
Changing careers as an adult is never ideal, but it's worth it. Your family and friends want you to live your life to the fullest and you deserve to be happy! The only thing left to do is to ask yourself: "What do I want to be when I grow up?" The possibilities are endless.
- See more at: http://www.milcareered.com/blog/4-tips-making-successful-career-change#s...
