Several years ago, I decided to switch careers and now I’m considering yet another pivot. Although my existing role in finance is systematic, offering a clear progression path, it doesn’t provide me any satisfaction. All I see is numbers in Excel sheets. It feels distant. It’s even more unsettling to see my colleagues enthusiastic about their jobs whereas I feel disconnected, like a spectator.
Perhaps this sense of disengagement stems from a lack of interest and engagement in the current job. Maybe a change of perspective would enable me to see it in a more positive light. Alternatively, I’m enticed by the possibility of a new position in aviation, a sector requiring high skills, that I reckon I would find engaging and impactful. Taking this step would involve a full-time training for 18 months, which is feasible considering my age and life stage.
The thought that gnaws at me, however, is whether this shift would only lead to a sense of deja vu down the line, fuelling an ongoing desire to seek better opportunities elsewhere.
The key question then becomes: should I venture into the unknown and risk another career shift or maximize what I currently have?
Your insight would be appreciated, given my past experience of switching careers, which has shown me that it is achievable. The larger concern appears to be whether my longing for satisfaction is misplaced, always seeking it elsewhere rather than in my current circumstance. If I decide to pursue the job offer in front of me, it would need a great deal of commitment and a possible attitude shift. This is a critical juncture in life; making a decision and then committing wholeheartedly to it is crucial. Otherwise, a perpetual state of indecision and dissatisfaction is inevitable.
If you’re currently grappling with finding purpose in your work and yearn to effect substantial change in society, you might want to consider utilizing your financial acumen, say within charitable organisations or NGOs. They’re always on the lookout for people with such skills. Alternatively, you might think about completely switching gears and completely dedicating yourself to a different field, one where you’re more likely to derive job satisfaction. A career counsellor could potentially offer valuable guidance in this process, helping you navigate the decision-making process in alignment with your inherent abilities.
Accepting a promotion and the accompanying training comes with a moral onus to give it your utmost dedication. This is a decision that warrants serious deliberation. You must base your choices on your present knowledge and experience, not through fear of potential remorse. The prospect of regret is natural but it can adversely impact your decisions and breed a chronic fear that’s impervious to abandon. Fast forward five years, and you could be well-practised in the art of regret, something you certainly don’t want.
Engage in conversations with your loved ones about your career trajectory. They are among the best people who can guide you about whether a career shift is the right choice for you right now. Be open to their opinions, as ignoring their advice might leave you trapped in a cycle of indecisiveness.
Listen carefully to the suggestions of those who are closest to you and fully commit to the decision. This includes articulating the decision, mentally adapting to it and emotionally embracing it. This path should ideally lighten your emotional burden and offer you some much-needed clarity. Do remember, however, this does not stop you from changing your course in future. In fact, it’ll make you more adept at making decisions and converting them into reality.
Numerous individuals may perceive your situation as being one of privilege, where you’re spoilt for choice with various favourable options. This, however, may conceal significant internal distress and a sense of unfulfillment. It is advisable to not linger with this decision-making, as your acquired knowledge and experiences are sufficient.
Being dedicated and displaying a purposeful mindset could make substantial changes to your life. The time to act upon this has arrived.