Life is about transitions. We graduate from high school and perhaps go to college, join the military or learn a trade. Parents transition into empty nesters. We get married and divorced. We change careers. We move away. I experienced my own transition recently — a career transition. After working practically my entire adult life in journalism and public relations, I shuttered the business I had owned for nearly 12 years. My goal? To pursue another profession I’d been passionate about for over a decade: finance.
Yes, transitions can be scary
You might be thinking: a decade? Why did it take me so long to make the switch? Because transitions can feel scary. Especially one that’s so close to our daily lives, like our work. For me, making this career change meant walking away from a field I know inside and out. I looked at my resume filled with journalism and PR experience and frankly, I wondered if I even had a chance.
Realizing your potential can help alleviate your fear
Through the doubt and hesitation, I had to remind myself to take a step back. I reflected on the experience I had gained throughout the years.
For example, as a business owner (like many of you) my customers and employees taught me the value of loyalty and hard work. This is the core of every financial advisor’s professional life. Through my experience in public relations and journalism, I built the ability to communicate complicated concepts in simple ways — often subjects that required detailed research. Finally, my former career showed me the value in managing relationships to ensure that people feel their questions, concerns, and goals are truly being heard.
The moral of this story? I was surprised to find that my experience — while in a different field — was ideal for transitioning into a new role as a financial advisor. You have the same potential. Think critically about the skills you bring to work with you every day, the skills that help you solve problems and achieve success. You may be surprised to find that you have a lot to bring to the table in a different profession… and opportunities you never knew you had.
Find your “why” and let it empower you
It’s helpful to think of the “why”: Why do you long to make this transition? What is it that will bring you satisfaction and joy? For me, this was gaining a deeper understanding of financial concepts I was eager to learn. Plus, the desire to help others and ensure they feel comfortable asking questions that will lead them toward their goals.
I bet you have a similar drive; that you have a reason for considering the big change. Perhaps you crave learning something new, starting your own business, or pursuing a passion you never thought could become a career. No matter what it is, thinking clearly of what drives you can help you make the commitment.
In the end, thoughts don’t create transitions
No matter how much time you spend thinking about the uncertainties that accompany transitions, chances are you won’t resolve them all until you jump in. Yes, starting a transition in life — whether a career change or otherwise — takes guts. Once you’ve thought critically and feel comfortable with your direction, only you can take that final step.
In other words: Thoughts don’t create transitions. Actions do.
Let’s journey together through life’s transitions
This same concept applies to finance. Any major life transition (especially a career change) will impact your financial situation. Turning your dreams into actions that will help steer your financial goals — that’s the heart of what we do. Let’s journey through life’s transitions together.
December 2019