There might come a time in your professional life, when it gets increasingly hard to get out of bed each morning, when you feel that this Sunday evening blues is hitting you stronger than ever or when you struggle to answer a core question — why am I doing what I am doing? What value it brings to me and to others? Am I being appreciated enough for my skills, talents and engagement? How can I leverage those better? What to do to enter each new working day with anticipation and excitement instead of disillusionment and boredom?

If any of the above sounded familiar then this article is for YOU.

This said, prior to taking the life-altering leap of faith and look for your true calling — it pays to start with preparation.

When it comes to getting ready for it, let's explore the essential steps to prepare for it:

The first step is self-reflection. Take time to reflect on your passions, values, skills, and interests. What truly energizes you? Understanding your motivations will guide you towards a fulfilling career path. For example, if you're passionate about helping others and have excellent communication skills, you might consider exploring roles in counseling or coaching.

Research and exploration are crucial aspects of career change. Conduct thorough research about the industries, job roles, and organizations that align with your desired career path. Dive into online resources, attend industry events, and engage in informational interviews and job shadowing to gain valuable insights. For instance, if you're considering a transition into the technology industry, explore different sectors within tech, such as software development, data analytics, or cybersecurity.

Skill assessment and development is the next step. Identify the skills required for your target career and assess your existing skills. Recognize any gaps and invest in developing new skills or enhancing existing ones through training, courses, or certifications. Let's say you're interested in entering the marketing field but lack digital marketing skills. Taking an online course or obtaining a certification in digital marketing would be a valuable step to bridge that gap.

Building a professional network is crucial during a career change. Cultivate relationships with professionals in your desired field. Attend industry events, join relevant professional associations, and engage in online networking platforms. Connect with individuals who can provide insights, mentorship, and potential job opportunities. Networking could lead to unexpected connections and possibilities.

Your resume and online presence need to reflect your career change goals. Tailor your resume to highlight relevant experiences, skills, and accomplishments for your new career direction. Additionally, update your online profiles, such as LinkedIn, to showcase your transferable skills and communicate your enthusiasm for the new field you're pursuing.

Seeking mentorship and guidance is invaluable during a career change. Connect with experienced professionals who have successfully transitioned into your desired career. They can provide guidance, share their experiences, and offer valuable insights. Learning from their journeys can help you navigate potential challenges and accelerate your own career change process.

Building a transition plan is essential. Create a comprehensive plan that outlines your career change goals, timeline, and actionable steps. Break down the process into manageable milestones and set realistic expectations for yourself. This plan will provide clarity and help you stay focused as you move forward.

Embracing lifelong learning is crucial in the ever-evolving professional landscape. Stay curious and committed to continuous learning. Embrace new challenges, stay up-to-date with industry trends, and seek opportunities to expand your knowledge and expertise in your new career field. The more you invest in your personal and professional growth, the more confident and prepared you'll feel.

Lastly, maintaining resilience and a positive mindset is vital during a career change. It's natural to face setbacks or encounter moments of self-doubt. Embrace these challenges as learning opportunities, celebrate small wins along the way, and keep a positive outlook. Remember, a career change is a journey, and each step forward contributes to your growth and progress.

I'm passionate about supporting individuals through career transitions, and I'd love to work on this topic together. Feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn, where we can collaborate and explore strategies to prepare for your career change. Together, we can navigate the journey and help you achieve your career aspirations.