How I Transitioned My Career
Image via Vogue China, December 2018
I get so excited when I hear about someone in transition. Although it may feel scary or overwhelming knowing where to start, I’m here to show you that through your inner wisdom, you can do it in a joyful way. Transitions are a beautiful opportunity to let go of things that are no longer serving you, and to lean into what’s meant for you in this lifetime.
When we are ready to do something new, we usually know what we don’t want (our present and past circumstances), but can get stuck on the specifics of what to do next. In our society, we’re taught to pick a goal, and take all the logical action to get there, no matter the costs. After getting laid off as a lawyer during my mental health crisis, I knew I didn’t want to be a lawyer (long hours, stressful work), but had no idea what I could do instead.
I read all of the books (Find Your Why, Designing Your LIfe, and What Color is Your Parachute were my favs), and hired career coaches, but kept hearing the annoying advice to do what lights me up. I was so uncomfortable in the unknown, that I was desperate for “any job” during my transition, but now I can look back and see that the journey of getting “here” was part of creating my new career.
One of the books had an exercise to draw out three potential career options, one similar to your last role, another with transferrable skills, and the third of your dream role. I surprised myself when my dream role self had long flowing hair, was wearing a suit with lots of beads, and identified as a Wellness Consultant for organizations, because my mind was so constricted to what I had been (identity!). Fast forward a few years and I’m doing that exact work.
When we own our desires, the universe starts conspiring with action steps to lead us there. Deep down, you have the vision of what you truly want, but because you’ve gone in a different direction, your desires seem like a buried memory. A surefire way to align yourself with a purposeful and fulfilling career is to start re-discovering yourself. You’re meant to be doing work that lights you up and brings light to other people. Trust me when I say that this is possible, because if I can do it, anyone can.
Of course, you can go the traditional route of networking, and researching jobs with transferable skills on job sites, but I spent two years with this method and was miserable the whole time. We’re taught that the way to create change is to pick what we want and take any action we can take to get there, the problem is, if it’s not ultimately aligned for us, it can be an exhausting mission to make it happen, despite all costs
So instead of banging your head against a wall while fruitlessly hunting, why not make the journey joyful, and use it as an opportunity to connect with a career that fulfills you? Below, I share the steps I used to do things differently, to help you avoid wasting your time on undesirable outcomes.
Stop and Take a Pause
I was forced to take a break, but if you are still in your current role, take intentional time to calm your mind, get clarity, and allow insights to come. This could look anything like long walks, tech-free time, or doing an activity that brings you pleasure. There’s a difference between creating space and numbing out, so be mindful of how much tv and social time you’re engaging in.
Create Financial Stability in your Life
This is for you if you’ve got laid off, quit, or told your boss to “fuck off” (I have done all three). You’ll want to minimize your expenses, maybe even move to your parents or somewhere with free rent, and get a part-time job to tide you over. Creating a foundation of safety allows you more freedom and creativity, and less stress in the process.
Get Clear on your Values and How You Want to Feel
Think of everything you’ve ever complained of at work, and start dreaming of the type of life you want. You want what you want for a reason. Expand your mind to what’s possible, and lean into how you want to feel every day at work. Maybe you want to feel more connected, stimulated, or chill during your days. You are worthy of feeling good. If you can’t imagine feeling engaged at work, start spending time with people who do.
Do Things to Make you Feel “That Way”, with No Expectation of Outcome
By doing things that light you up, you’ll start attracting things to you, and you’ll feel incredible with each action step. Your life is the journey, not the destination. This process reconnects you with what you’re meant to be doing. Your mind can’t logically link these activities to an income, but trust me, it will come.
Be Open to New Opportunities and the World Around You
This is where the magic happens, people!! You’ve done the work, now open to receiving. The universe doesn’t just drop your gifts on your doorstep, it’ll work through other people or things to get your attention. You’ll see a job posting you wouldn’t have noticed before, or will overhear your barista chatting with someone who’s hiring for your dream role. Pay attention, and take action when something feels like a hell yes!
Lean into Trust
When you’re taking actions that make you feel good, life will feel good and easeful too. Sometimes we can feel delusional when everyone is telling us to do things their way, or hopefuless when things aren’t arriving as quickly as we’d like. If you’re new to intuitive action, start keeping track of the times you trusted yourself, and saw a successful outcome. Come back to these real-life reminders if you’re ever stressed that this new way of doing isn’t working.
I hope you find these tips helpful. Job hunting can be such a stressful process, so remember to take care, treat yourself gently, and that nothing lasts forever!!