If you’ve been stuck in a rut at your current gig or have been considering a career change, making your wishes a reality can be quite the challenge if you’re the primary breadwinner for your family. Likewise, a secure job is difficult to give up when you’ve gained significant experience in your current field.
The idea of a career change often feels like a fairytale when we have so much to potentially lose. That being said, nobody should be forced into a life of misery at their workplace. When you get the itch that enough is enough, it’s hard to ignore when you feel like you’re stuck between your wealth and your happiness.
Consider the following six questions you need to ask yourself to determine whether or not you’re serious about a career change. The answers to these questions are crucial to protecting your family’s financial future while also determining why you desire such a massive change in the first place.
“Is a Total Career Change Necessary?”
In many cases, you may not need to totally leave your career or jump ship at your company, but rather take on a new role internally. It might be time for you to move up to management, or perhaps adapt to a role that allows you some time to work from home.
Given the wealth of modern remote roles, many of those working in the financial sector can get plenty of work done at home these days. For example, consider advancements in stock trending software and other tech tools to keep us connected with our industries regardless of where we’re working.
“What’s The Root of the Problem?”
The need for a change rarely arises overnight. Oftentimes, the desire to get out of your field occurs due to some deeper issues.
Perhaps you’re not spending enough time with your family. Maybe you haven’t seen a pay raise in a few good years. Once you assess the symptoms of why you want to pack up and leave your current gig, it becomes much easier to figure what steps you need to take yourself.
“Is This Just Another Rough Patch?”
People change, plain and simple. If you’re going through a rough patch at work due to a busy season or management breathing down your neck, it’s tempting to want to throw in the towel.
However, it’s important to look at the big picture in terms of your career. Sometimes we have to deal with a few months of misery for the sake of our financial well-being. It’s a harsh reality, but something that many of us in the corporate world have come to accept.
“Will I Increase My Earning Potential?”
This is perhaps the biggest question that needs to be answered for the sake of your family. If you aren’t putting yourself in a position to increase your earning potential, you really need to think twice before making any rash decisions. Remember: stepping away from a secure gig could impact your family’s ability to save money or stay secure under your health insurance, for example.
“Will I Be Burning Any Bridges?”
Even if you’re sick and tired of your current position, there’s no good reason to leave your job on poor terms. You never know who’s help or reference you’ll need down the line in pursuit of bettering your situation. It’s best to bow out of your position gracefully rather than telling off your boss before you bounce.
“Will There Be Any Hard Feelings?”
Finally, you’re going to need to have a heart-to-heart with your spouse to make sure that they’re informed on your decision to move on from your job. Even the most supportive of spouses need to look at your situation objectively, though. These sorts of conversations are healthy for your relationship, and may also uncover the bigger picture problem for why you’re unhappy at work.
There’s nothing wrong with wanting a career change, but definitely make it a point to look before you leap. In short, don’t make the mistake of walking away from a steady gig without answering these questions first.
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