Restart: Finding Your Career Footing When Life And Work Has Other Plans

Life is unpredictable, filled with many peaks and valleys. One of the things that can be affected when life takes a turn for the worst is your career. You started your professional life with a clear plan in mind, only to find that things didn’t quite go the way you had hoped. Whether it’s a change in personal circumstances such as family or health, you were laid off from your job, or you simply decided that your occupation no longer fulfills you, course correcting is essential. It’s okay to spend time feeling uncomfortable and unhappy, but it’s time to pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and start making meaningful career moves again. Here are some tips to find your career footing when life and work has other plans.

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Spend Time Self-Reflecting

So, life has thrown you a curve ball. What next? Everything happens for a reason, and while it may not feel good when you’re in the trenches, there is a lesson behind every trial. Before you start job hunting again, spend some time in self-reflection to discover what you really want out of life. Journalling is a great way to empty your mind and get your thoughts down on paper to organize later. To kickstart the process, here are some questions to ask yourself:

· What am I passionate about?

· What are my strengths and weaknesses?

· Where do I see myself in 5 years time?

· What are my priorities and values?

Seek Guidance From Mentors

During any type of transition, seeking guidance is essential. You can find career help in the form of an established career coach or a direct mentor in your industry. These professionals can help you navigate the complexities of an ever-evolving job market and they can also help you set goals, suggest relevant resources, and provide tailored advice to assist you on your journey. Additionally, guidance can boost your decision-making skills by giving you all the information you need to assist you in making an intelligent decision about your new career direction.

Improve Your Career Skills

To gain a competitive advantage in your industry, improving your skills is essential. The more qualifications you have, the better your chances of securing a position. This is especially true if you take an up-to-date course . By being proactive in this area, it shows that you are serious about your career and showcasing yourself as the best person for the job.

Be Persistent and Patient

While pursuing your ideal career might be frustrating, don’t give up. Good things come to those who work for them, and you will need to invest a lot of time, effort, and energy into finding the job you are truly satisfied with. You may find that you are applying for jobs and sending out your resume but no one is contacting you. It’s important to understand that rejection is a part of the process. The job market is extremely competitive and there may be many qualified candidates applying for the same positions as you. However, if you refuse to give up, eventually, you can find a compatible job or clients that will get you back on your career path.

The one thing you can predict in life is that it will change, and sometimes, these changes will catch you off guard. Finding your career footing will require flexibility, resilience, and a healthy dose of patience because it is not going to happen overnight. This new journey you are about to embark on will be challenging, but it will also be extremely rewarding leading to a more fulfilling professional life and personal growth.

By Goldie Chan, Senior Contributor