How to Find the Confidence to Switch Careers

According to a Gallup Poll, 85% of people hate their jobs, which is a rather large statistic.
If your job provides little to no joy, you might be toying with the idea of changing occupations to embark on a position that is a better fit for your personality, lifestyle, and goals.

However, a lack of self-belief could be preventing you from taking the plunge and working your way towards a new vocation.
If you want to change your life for the better, you cannot allow a small issue like fear to hold you back. Continue reading for advice on how to find the confidence to switch careers.

Gain Experience

If you are hesitant to embark on a new career because you’re unsure if it’s the right fit for you, you should aim to gain experience before you commit to a degree course or training program.

You could volunteer in your spare time to learn more about a profession, so you can identify if you have the mindset, skillset, and hard work ethic to flourish in a role. For instance, if you dream of starting your own catering business, dip your toe into the industry by organizing a delicious dinner party for your family and/or friends.

Work Towards a Career in Your Spare Time

The thought of giving up your existing job for a brand-new career can be more than a little daunting. It might, therefore, help to ease into your new profession. For instance, if you dream of becoming a fiction writer, you shouldn’t quit your current role to make it as an author. Instead, you should work on your novel in your spare time, with the hope of it being published in the future.

Alternatively, if you dream of embarking on a career as a mental health counselor, you could earn a clinical mental health counseling masters online once the working day is done and during weekends. It could make earning a degree less overwhelming, as a program could
work around your full- or part-time job.

Take Small, Courageous Steps

Rather than jumping in both feet first, you should take small, courageous steps when attempting to switch occupations. For example, you could attend an industry networking event to mix with successful professionals in your desired sector, or you could meet with a career advisor to discuss your CV, necessary qualifications, and transferable skills. Every small step you take will boost your confidence and increase your passion for entering an industry.

Plan for the Worst-Case Scenario

It’s likely some form of fear is holding you back. Build your confidence by considering the worst-case scenario when switching careers and then identify the contingencies you will need to put into place to bounce back. For example, if you’re worried about financial hardship, you might need to develop a savings fund to serve as a monetary buffer. Knowing you are prepared for every eventuality could provide the confidence you need to pursue your career goals.