Q: I am in my late 30s and have worked at the same job since I graduated from college 15 years ago. For the last several years, I have wanted to change my career. It seems like an 18 year old made the decision to put me in my present career, but I have changed as a person, and I want to change my profession to reflect the person who I am now. What direction can you give me?

A: Your dilemma is not uncommon. It is possible that some individuals have more than one career in their lifetimes. As adults grow developmentally, we become more aware of ourselves, our world around us, and ways in which we may interact with our world in meaningful ways. In addition, we may gain awareness of career options in our 30s (or 40s, etc.) of which we were unaware when we were younger. Furthermore, we may have more resources to attain our goals as we mature. The following are some issues to consider in making your decision about career changes:

• Is there any problem in your present job/career that you are trying to avoid by changing jobs/careers? If so, you may first want to address the problem at hand before making a major job/career change.
• What do you know about yourself that will inform your decision-making process? Know yourself well before considering a major job/career change. Many colleges and universities offer career counseling to help you assess your interests, aptitudes, strengths and weaknesses as well as job markets for specific careers. In addition, certain mental health professionals specialize in career development counseling.
• Who will be affected by your decision? How would you be affected by a career change? How would your spouse/partner, children, and extended family be affected by your decision? Would your immediate and extended family be supportive of your decision to change careers? Consider carefully the ways in which your decision will affect yourself and others close to you. Having the support of our family and friends while making a major change can be a buffer against stress. Conversely, not having adequate support can increase stress.
• What do you know about the field you would like to pursue? It is advisable to know as much as possible about a career before making a major career change. Check your local library, do informational interviews with individuals working in the field, and do volunteer work (if possible) in order to gain a greater understanding of what it would be like to work in the field.
• What would be your business plan for change? What is your long-term goal? Can your goal be reached within the context of your present career? Identify short-term goals and steps necessary to achieve your goals. Evaluate your plan regularly.

If you are considering a major career change, seeking professional consultation is a good idea. The decision-making process is multidimensional, and professional guidance can be a valuable tool toward determining a satisfying career change.

By Laura Winchester
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Certified Employee Assistance Professional
Private Practice and Contract Provider
with INTEGRIS Corporate Assistance Program