What do you do if your career transition feels overwhelming?

En mi trayectoria, he descubierto que antes de evaluar objetivamente mi carrera profesional, es fundamental revisar mi bienestar emocional. Un estado de salud mental equilibrado es clave, ya que el estrés o la ansiedad pueden nublar nuestro juicio, llevándonos a una valoración errónea o excesivamente negativa de nuestras circunstancias. Al cuidar nuestra salud mental, nos aseguramos de estar en la mejor posición para identificar y aprovechar las oportunidades que se presentan

When a career transition feels overwhelming, break the process into manageable steps and set realistic goals to track progress. Seek support from mentors or peers who have experienced similar changes. Prioritize self-care through exercise, adequate sleep, and stress-relief techniques to maintain your well-being. Embrace a positive mindset, focus on learning new skills to boost confidence, and remain adaptable to navigate unexpected challenges. These strategies can make the transition more manageable and less daunting.

Al definir metas, es crucial incorporar la metodología SMART. Aunque puede ser un desafío alinear nuestras aspiraciones con estos criterios, es un paso esencial. La formación específica, el uso de plantillas y ejemplos disponibles en línea, o incluso el apoyo de la inteligencia artificial generativa, pueden ser recursos valiosos. Estas herramientas nos ayudan a estructurar nuestras metas de manera efectiva, asegurando que sean claras, medibles y alcanzables, lo que aumenta significativamente nuestras posibilidades de lograrlas

In managing an overwhelming career transition, it's crucial to break down the process into manageable steps like skill enhancement, networking, and updating your resume. Focusing on continuous learning through courses and workshops can bridge any skills gap and boost confidence. Additionally, maintaining your mental health is essential; ensure you manage stress by setting realistic goals and taking breaks as needed. Leverage your existing skills and experiences by identifying how they transfer to new roles, and keep abreast of industry trends to remain informed and engaged. This comprehensive approach can make the transition smoother and less daunting.

A career transition is a huge decision you have made for yourself. Please take a moment to be proud. You also didn't get to this decision alone, there have been many people supporting, encouraging, and nudging you along your career path. Now is the time to activate those individuals in your circle of influence. Reach out to them, schedule time to connect, and then do just that...connect. Creating the time and space to genuinely talk, share big ideas, and plan for future success will help you with this big shift. If your planned transition is a pivot, start engaging with those already in the industry. Attend an industry talk (in-person or virtual), join an influential LinkedIn Group, or interact with a post from an industry leader.

Los profesionales en transición pueden manejar el estrés identificando las causas, organizando tareas y plazos, y practicando técnicas de relajación como la respiración profunda y la meditación. La actividad física regular y una vida saludable son clave. Es vital contar con una red de apoyo social y compartir preocupaciones con personas de confianza. Estas estrategias ayudan a enfrentar los cambios con calma y eficiencia.

To add to these great points I’d say be aware if you’re trying to cope with the transition alone and keeping it all inside you including the overwhelm. Reach out to your partner, trusted friend, family member and explain how you’re feeling. I remember sitting in the bath upstairs with tears flowing down my cheeks as I was navigating my thoughts/path out of teaching and into marketing at the time - whilst my partner was downstairs non the wiser! It’s amazing how immediately I felt a burden lifted after I shared my thoughts, feelings and concerns.