You’re not sure if you’re on the right career path. What are the signs that it’s time to pivot?

1 Lack of passion

One of the most obvious signs that you're not on the right career path is that you lack passion for your work. You may find yourself dreading Mondays, counting down the hours, or feeling indifferent about your projects and goals. Passion is not just a nice-to-have, but a crucial factor for your motivation, performance, and satisfaction. If you don't feel excited or curious about your work, you may be missing out on opportunities to grow, learn, and contribute. Think about what sparks your interest and what kind of work would make you feel more engaged and fulfilled.

3 Lack of growth

A third sign that you're not on the right career path is that you lack growth opportunities in your work. Growth means that you have the chance to develop new skills, knowledge, and experiences that help you advance your career and reach your potential. If your work is stagnant, repetitive, or limited, you may feel bored, frustrated, or stuck. You may also fall behind the changing demands and expectations of your industry or profession. Think about what your career goals are and how your work supports or hinders them.

4 Lack of fit

A fourth sign that you're not on the right career path is that you lack fit with your work environment. Fit means that you feel comfortable and compatible with the culture, people, and expectations of your workplace. If your work environment is toxic, hostile, or incompatible with your personality, style, or needs, you may feel stressed, isolated, or unhappy. You may also struggle to perform well or build positive relationships with your colleagues, managers, or clients. Think about what kind of work environment suits you best and how your current one compares.

5 Lack of impact

A fifth sign that you're not on the right career path is that you lack impact in your work. Impact means that you feel that your work matters and makes a difference to yourself, others, or the world. If your work is meaningless, irrelevant, or insignificant, you may feel demotivated, disillusioned, or dissatisfied. You may also question your purpose and direction in life. Think about what kind of impact you want to have and how your work aligns or diverges from it.

6 How to pivot

If you recognize any of these signs in your work, it may be time to consider pivoting to a different career path. Pivoting is a strategic change in direction based on your strengths, interests, values, and goals. It can be challenging but also rewarding and fulfilling. To pivot successfully, assess your current situation and identify what you want to change and why. Explore your options and research what kind of work would suit you better and how to get there. Plan your transition and set realistic and specific goals, actions, and timelines. Seek support from mentors, coaches, peers, or networks who can provide advice, feedback, or opportunities. Finally, take action and execute your plan while remaining flexible and adaptable to changing circumstances. Pivoting can be daunting but exciting; paying attention to the signs that you're not on the right career path and taking steps to change it can bring more satisfaction, meaning, and joy into your work.