It takes a certain level of courage to switch career paths. And truth be told, not everyone has that courage.
A career change could be a bit dicey, as it is often a huge switch from what you’ve been known for, to something relatively new. It also comes with all the emotions there may be to it— the doubts, the what-ifs, the possibilities, and in some cases, the regrets.
A recent survey conducted for Fast Company discovered that about 52% of U.S. workers considered a job change in 2020, and about 44% had plans in place to take the huge leap.
Analysis of workers who switch careers and those who stay in it is a germane area of the labour market.
Changing a career path could be for a host of reasons which could range from; not finding fulfillment, not growing financially, boredom, burnout, or even lack of motivation to work. Perhaps, it could even stem from the curiosity of wanting to try something new. It could also be in a bid for more flexibility than the current career.
Although, before changing a particular career, a thorough evaluation is highly required to prepare for the smoothest transition ever. It mustn’t be an impulsive or spontaneous decision without careful consideration.
Careful consideration includes weighing both career options— which one brings the most fulfillment? Which one drives in the most income? Which one requires the most grit and tenacity? Which one is more flexible and allows for creativity?
All of these questions must be carefully assessed and objectively weighed, so as not to lose motivation along the line.
Ty Frankel— who recently switched careers from creating modern music for TV shows, video games and movies to building a software company & his personal brand, says; “switching careers can be a bit daunting at the beginning, but as time goes by, there’s enough free flow, and your new career becomes second nature to you.”
Laying a Firm Foundation
It’s not surprising to see people change careers from time to time. What would be surprising is if someone switches careers without proper preparation, or laying a foundation for a strong foothold within the new career path or industry. A new career could be overwhelming, so it’s important to work towards having a firm grip on everything that comes with it.
Ty Frankel, who previously partnered with household names such as Universal Music, Sony, Warner Bros and Red Bull, states that “laying a firm foundation is key to having any successful career.” Having spent almost 9 years in the music industry, Ty recently switched career paths.
A firm foundation also requires setting strategic and achievable career goals. Before setting goals in a new career, a bit of research ought to be done. Learn more about prominent figures in the industry. How did they do it? What’s their work ethic like? How do they deal with failures? All of these and much more could serve as some sort of guide to crafting your niche and excelling in the new career.
Networking is also quite germane to laying a firm foundation. It’s advisable to mix with those in the game already— those who have industry experience. This could go a long way in accentuating laid-down goals and objectives.
This art of networking is seen in how Ty has established VIP Agency Lounge— a group of masterminds that show young marketers and agency owners the ropes of scaling their business. “Networking and moving with the right people is underrated. A single conversation with the right person can skyrocket your trajectory in business”, Ty says.
Exploring the possibilities
A new career path comes with its baggage, possibilities, and opportunities— and all of these require a certain experience level to deal with them appropriately. Although, it doesn’t have to be an experience directly relating to the career, as one could always make use of previous experience as a model to understand required needs and demands.
An example of this is how Ty Frankel— at the age of 14, ran a hip-hop blog where he interviewed famous underground rappers like Masta Ace and Jon Connor, used the experience garnered, for his new line of business.
He says; “past experience has shown me the importance of building relationships, and this has been very helpful in building up my brand in the marketing space. ”
No doubt, establishing and keeping working relationships is very important. This goes as far as navigating the course of life itself, and not just in terms of career paths alone.
Getting Past the Past
Although, one must note that it wouldn’t always be a smooth road. At least, not entirely. There are days when regrets and doubts creep in, and also days that come with a pile of shortcomings and failures.
On such days or occurrences, it is important to forge ahead and not dwell on such mishaps or shortcomings, as they may dampen work morale if given too much attention.
For instance, Ty Frankel lost $127k in crypto in 2018. Three years later, he dismantled Shut Down Music. And in May 2021, he further dismantled Shut Down Emails. This wasn’t an easy experience, but he forged ahead regardless and went on to build a software company and his social media brand.
Ty says; “When one thing fails, you learn from it and try again, now armed with all the lessons you’ve learned in the past.”
Embracing it all
Now fully rooted in your new career, welcome all of the opportunities and emotions that come with it. Remember that change is inevitable and that it’s an important part of growth.
Plan, strategize, network, rinse and repeat. Take charge of every day. Ascertain your locus of control and assess each experience that comes your way. Focus on what you can control, and put aside what is beyond your control. Don’t rush, take it a day at a time.
As time goes by, reflect on your journey so far and celebrate your wins. Yes, you did it!
