Any successful career changers here?

R

red_mct

Cathlete
Just curious. I have been in my field for 15 years (sheesh, I can't believe that), and while I love what I do, I think I am ready to be challenged doing something else. I am not bragging, I have worked VERY hard and put myself through college twice, and I am pretty much at the top of my game here. I can probably coast for a couple of years if I wanted to, but I am starting to feel bored & chomping at the bit for something else. I am not worried about starting at the bottom anywhere from a skills perspective because I am, well, slightly competitive and pretty confident in my ability to do most things short of brain surgery. ;-) Ok, and Imax2. ;-) ;-) ;-)

However, the thought of going backwards on the pay scale worries me. I have a mortgage and kids and a pug and a Cathe habit, and it just seems like a selfish and self-centered thing to do, and maybe I should be looking to be challenged OUTSIDE of work. I dunno.

I know this is vague, but I am wondering, did anyone here change from a successful career mid-stream? If so, you went from what to what, and did this require schooling or some other type of prep? Was it very difficult to adjust? Are you sorry?

Thanks for any feedback...

Marie
 
I've done it twice!!

I spent six years in human resources when I first got out of college. I decided that I was interested in computers and interested in making more money. I started a Master's Degree program in software engineering (after taking a couple of math courses) at Northeastern University in Boston. Northeastern has a co-op program and after my first six months, I got a co-op job at Lotus Development Corporation. That led to a permanent job with tuition reimbursement benefits so I finished my degree at night. I more than doubled the salary that I made in Human Resources. After 12 years at Lotus, I decided that it was time for me to be a SAHM, which I have done for 6.5 years. I gave up a very good salary to do this )no regrets) About a year ago it was time for me to go back to work (part-time) but that I no longer wanted to work in software. So, I decided the thing I loved to do the most was work out and I got my Personal Trainer certification last month!! The money I make as a trainer will not nearly approach my salary as a software engineer but I will be doing what I like and will have the flexibility that I need.


--Lois


"If I have the belief that I can do it, I shall surely acquire the capacity to do it even if I may not have it at the beginning" - Mahatma Ghandi
 
Great topic, Marie. This is very inspiring as I have thought often about switching careers but nervous because of the pay scale difference and all my responsibilites at home as well. It will be interesting to hear what others have done. Lois - I would absolutely LOVE to be a personal trainer so I especially can't wait to hear about the progression in your new career!

Angie
 
Hi Marie!

Good for you for even thinking about taking on a new challenge. It IS a really scary thing, so it's good that you're smart and doing your homework. I was a registerd nurse for 12 years. I initially went into nursing because I wanted to help people, but over time, it just became so administrative to me. I was already an aerobics instructor and I loved being at the gym more than anything! And people seemed to naturally gravitate towards me to ask me questions. I think it's because I'm kind of friendly..haha So, I studied and got my personal training certification, and started my own personal training business. The money is no where near what I was making, but my new husband was really supportive of my decision. I absolutely cannot wait to wake up everyday to get to work. I LOVE my clients and teaching. And there is nothing like the satisfaction I get when they see some progress and are so grateful. I wish you the best of luck!!! I'm 40 now, buy the way...so I say do your homework and go for your dreams!!!:) GOOD LUCK!!
 
Ladies, thanks very much for your input. I am not sure what I am going to do, but I am definitely weighing all of the options. It is gratifying to hear that some of you have made such major life changes and are really happy with your decision.... I am inspired! ;-)

Cheers,
Marie
 
I worked in human resources, concentrating on benefits, until 2 years ago when I got fired for advising an employee that it was illegal for the hospital to demote her while she was out on disability (FMLA was invoked). I wasn't loyal to the hospital in their opinion & they were right.

Anyway, I collected my unemployment for 9 months & eventually took a job as a safety analyst with the Air Force. My job was to make sure military doctors reported medical errors they made in practicing medicine. I loved the people I worked with but didn't like the job so much. Another opportunity within the medical group came up & I applied. I am now processing disability claims for active duty & reserve members. I love my job & am very fortunate to love the leadership I work under. Unfortunately, being military leadership changes every 2 to 3 years. We are preparing for that change now. I'm praying that I will love the new leadership as much as the current. At least I love my job!!!
 
Hi Marie,

Don't be afraid to take the chance!! I just changed my career over the past year and it was totally worth it! I use to be a manager at a bank for 7 years. I was working long hours and wasn't really having a whole lot of time with my family. I decided to take the plunge and start my own business. I got my business license and started a small daycare in my home. I took a pay cut at first, but the rewards paid off in the end. I now make more money then I did at the bank. I spend more time with my family and am not as stressed anymore. I hope everything works out for you!

Aila
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

Our Newsletter

Get awesome content delivered straight to your inbox.

Top