Embarking on a Career Change: Should You Change Jobs or Industries?

As you approach your 30s, you've accumulated experience and connections in the workplace and are likely moving up to the middle or upper levels of your company. However, looking back, you may realize that your career path has gradually deviated from your original aspirations. You might wonder if you're still on the right track, facing the existential question: Should I change jobs or switch industries?

Common Reasons for Job or Career Changes

Career Development:
As a seasoned professional, you seek recognition from your company and peers. If your organization doesn't offer clear promotion opportunities or acknowledge your contributions, it can lead to disillusionment and a loss of motivation.

Salary:
While the meaning of work is important, passion doesn't pay the bills. After several years in the workforce, practical considerations come into play. If your salary doesn't keep up with the cost of living, changing companies or industries may become inevitable.

Interests:
Some people prioritize income when they first enter the workforce, only to accumulate wealth over the years without finding job satisfaction. The daily grind can lead to a loss of direction.

Health and Well-being:
After the age of 25, you may hear of friends whose health has suffered due to work. During these prime years, while working hard is expected, the physical and mental demands may exceed what you can handle, especially if you have family responsibilities and no longer wish to push yourself to the limit.

Five Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Job Change and Career Switch

1. Reason for Leaving:
   Before seeking change, clarify what you want to leave behind—is it the nature of the work, workplace relationships, or the company's rigid structure and systems? If it's the latter three, a job change might suffice without the need for a career switch.
2. Career Planning:
   You might be at a plateau, but if you're not under immediate financial pressure, consider the long-term prospects of your company and the overall industry development.
3. Financial Stability:
   A career change can lead to a temporary drop in income. Calculate the potential income difference between your current and expected new roles, and assess your tolerance for risk based on your current standard of living.
4. Difficulty Level:
   How challenging will it be to adapt to a new industry (or company)? Are you starting from scratch, or do you have relevant expertise and qualifications? How accessible are the necessary qualifications, and can you handle the challenges involved?
5. Backup Plan:
   An important aspect of risk management is having a "Plan B." If you were to leave your job today, do you still have connections at your old company that could help you in a crucial moment? Do you have alternative sources of income to support you during a career transition?

Beyond the "9-to-5": Exploring the Endless Possibilities of Work

Remember, your choices don't have to be limited to changing jobs or industries. With the rise of remote work, consider alternative work styles such as freelancing, entrepreneurship, or digital nomadism. However, no matter how you plan your career, remember that decisions should be made for yourself, not out of social pressure or to stay in your comfort zone.

Expanding Your Social Circle: Discussing Career Planning with New Friends

If you're feeling lost and want to find peers to share your thoughts with, beyond family or a partner, consider connecting with new friends through CocoCoffee House. CocoCoffee House is a social networking platform designed for women. If you're interested in building meaningful relationships or finding sisters to participate in activities and share your concerns with, download our app to learn more!

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