Of course you’d create a transition plan to help you move through other changes in your life… right? Makes practical sense. Yet sometimes we get so excited and caught up in the moment that we tell ourselves we’re going to outline a step-by-step process and then quickly forget about it as we’re so busy reacting to whatever is happening around us.
Before you can move past the point of vague possibilities and enter the throes of a serious career change, you MUST develop a plan so you are covered in the financial, mental, and emotional aspects of your life and your future. The basics of your career transition plan should look something like this:
- Financial. Taking care of your bills, yourself and your family, and any other obligations. Making cutbacks where necessary; starting a savings plan that’s devoted entirely to your new professional endeavor. These are just a few of the many ways to keep your finances in order while you restructure your life.
- Mental. Coming up with ways you can keep those negative voices at bay. Developing a plan for learning the skills you may need in your new career. Rewarding yourself for milestones achieved along the way. This is a time for encouragement, confidence, and a can-do attitude, and it helps to “feed your hungry mind” what it needs to help you grow, spiritually, intellectually, and professionally.
- Emotional. Identify ways to overcome the fears you may have. You’ll need a cheerleader to help you continue on and move past the potential obstacles in your way. Find or ask for emotional support from friends, family, or a career coach who can help steady your course as you make the transition in your career and life.
Career Transition Coach Hallie Crawford
