Insight on How To Make a Career Change
“Gradually over time, our self and our work drift apart. And we need to try to bring those back into alignment. And I think that’s a good reason why probably at least one time in your life, you ought to make a big and drastic career change. That is the way you’re going to find work that is big enough for your spirits, that is the way, I believe, that we’ll be able to live deep and suck all the marrow from life.”
-Roman Krznaric
We LOVE discovering people that are living and preaching the live in the grey message. Roman Krznaric is one of these people.
You might remember Roman from our Old Attitudes About Work post earlier this week. He’s inspired us yet again with a talk where he shares 5 ways to think about the art of career change.
Read below for Roman’s insight on how to find work that allows you to ditch the black-and-white, make your work make sense for your life, feel fully alive and live in the grey.
1. The prospect of changing career is confusing.
The truth is there are a zillion things you could do with your life. While that sounds awesome, it can be problematic and lead to decision paralysis. Don’t let this stop you in your quest to make a change. It’s totally natural to feel this way, accept it as part of the process.
2. Beware the lure of personality tests.
Krznaric points out that when we are feeling confused, we want a shortcut, or an easy way out of the confusion. One of the most popular methods of doing this is to take a personality test that then analyzes your character and directs you towards a profession or industry. The truth is, there is very little scientific evidence that this works. Don’t get swayed by these distracting assessments.
3. Consider what the right style of work is for you.
Do you want to be a modern Renaissance (wo)man, aka freelancer, that works on multiple projects at once that satisfies each of your passions? Or do you want to be a ‘serial specialist’ where you focus on one career at a time, but change careers often. Having clarity will help you move forward and take action.
4. Where do your values and talents meet?
Aristotle said it best, “Where the needs of the world and your talent cross, therein lies your vocation.” Find your sweet spot.
5. Act first, reflect later.
This idea is totally in alignment with our philosophy that says, action trumps intentions and we like how Roman prefaces this point by asking, “Imagine three parallel universes. In each you have a year to try any kind of work you want. What three jobs would you be excited to try?” Now, don’t just imagine - experiment and actually test them. Act first, reflect later.
Have these tips helped you take action towards your grey journey? Share with us in the comments below.