As most of us were forced to choose a career path in our teens or early 20s when we still weren’t quite sure what suits us the most, craving a career change in our 30s is not an uncommon occurrence. Whether you need more flexibility and financial stability or you simply realized your current job is unfulfilling, switching careers can be one of the best and most satisfying decisions you’ll ever make, even though it might seem a bit stressful and daunting at first. However, there are a few things you need to consider before pursuing a career change in your 30s:
To better understand the direction in which you would like your future to go, you must first ask yourself what is not working in your current situation. This can be accomplished by a few simple questions, such as what don’t you like about your current career, which aspects would you change, and which job would make you feel happiest and most fulfilled. Such a reevaluation will allow you to pinpoint any aspects of your current job you are not happy with, giving you the opportunity to understand your interest and wishes better, and pave the right way for the best, most satisfactory changes.
In case you have already decided on a career option that would be ideal for you, it might be wise to consider pursuing further education. Over half of all jobs available today require university degrees, with the most lucrative ones often needing even more experience. Keep in mind that this doesn’t always have to mean acquiring a master’s degree in one of Australia’s top universities. Even completing a couple of classes to finish your bachelor’s, attending some high-demand nursing courses, or going into specialized training could provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue a career in a new field.
If you are not yet certain about your dream career or you would simply like to gain more experience, apprenticeships can also be a brilliant option. They will allow you to expand your knowledge, gain the necessary skills, and see whether you are happier and more content in this new field while receiving recognized qualifications and most benefits of a regular job. If this seems like the right choice for you, consider applying for apprenticeships to further your career. Here, you will find a wide array of options, from the building and construction to the engineering and automotive industries, allowing you to make the best decision for your future career.
Once you have selected your ideal career and the right educational path, it’s time to examine your finances. Think about your spending habits and possible ways of reducing them, take a look at your savings, and see whether you are eligible for any loans. Not only will you need to assess the available budget for pursuing education and training, but also whether and how long you can afford not to work. Consulting with a financial advisor to discuss your current circumstances might be of great help in this situation as well.
The job market in the western world has always been incredibly competitive. For this reason, your aim should be to become the best possible candidate for your dream job, whether that means investing in additional courses and training or even listening to business podcasts and improving your social skills in an effort to excel as a potential employee. However, you also need to keep in mind that things rarely happen overnight. While we might get lucky sometimes, changing careers is a challenging and time-consuming process that requires persistence, dedication, and plenty of patience.
From going back to school to supporting yourself through difficult transitions, changing a career can often be a demanding endeavor. However, it can also be one of the best decisions you’ll ever make, once you finally venture into a great career that fulfills your needs and makes you a happier and more satisfied person.
Business Advisor
