4 Traits Of Women Who Successfully Transition Their Careers
Joana Fonseca Orvalho
Career Clarity Coach | Helping Women Break Free from Career Uncertainty & Take Bold Action | Professional Facilitator | Bestselling Author
Career transitions can feel overwhelming, especially when you're stepping into the unknown.
But have you ever wondered what sets apart those who make bold career moves with confidence and those who stay stuck in uncertainty?
Through my experience as a career clarity coach, I’ve worked with women who have successfully transitioned into careers that align with their passions and strengths.
And while each journey is unique, I’ve noticed four key traits they all share.
If you’re thinking about making a career move, these four traits can make all the difference.
1. They Possess a Clear Sense of Purpose
Successful career transitions don’t happen by accident.
Women who transition successfully have a strong sense of purpose guiding their decisions. They take time to reflect on what truly matters to them - whether it's making an impact, achieving a better work-life balance, or stepping into a leadership role.
?? Action step: Ask yourself: What do I want my work to stand for? What impact do I want to have? Clarity on these questions will help you make aligned career decisions.
2. They Actively Seek Mentorship & Build Supportive Networks
No one builds a successful career alone.
Women who navigate career transitions well surround themselves with mentors, peers, and communities that support their growth. They understand that learning from others' experiences and receiving guidance can accelerate their progress.
?? Action step: Identify someone in your network who has made a successful transition and ask for a virtual coffee chat. Engaging in conversations with people who’ve been where you want to go can provide valuable insights and encouragement.
3. They Embrace Adaptability & Welcome Change
Change is uncomfortable, but successful women see it as an opportunity rather than a setback.
Instead of resisting uncertainty, they develop an adaptable mindset and view challenges as stepping stones to growth. They are open to learning new skills, exploring different industries, and reinventing themselves when needed.
?? Action step: Instead of fearing change, reframe it: What new possibilities could this transition open up for me? Shifting your perspective can turn fear into excitement.
4. They Cultivate Resilience & Learn from Setbacks
Career transitions don’t always go smoothly.
Rejections, setbacks, and self-doubt are part of the process. But what sets successful women apart is their resilience - their ability to learn from setbacks and keep moving forward. Instead of viewing challenges as failures, they see them as valuable lessons that refine their path.
?? Action step: The next time you face a setback, ask yourself: What can I learn from this? How can I adjust my approach? Every challenge is an opportunity for growth.
If you’re feeling stuck in your career, know that success isn’t just about talent or luck - it’s about mindset, strategy, and the right support.
Which of these four traits do you already embody? And which one could you focus on developing next?
?? Ready to make your own career transition with clarity and confidence? I’d love to help. Let’s chat! Drop a comment or DM me to explore how coaching can support your journey.
??? And in the meantime, join me for an inspiring LinkedIn Live! I’ll be speaking with my ex-client, who transitioned from a corporate Compliance role to becoming a Menstrual Health Coach.
We’ll talk about how she shifted from pursuing another corporate role to starting a business she truly loves - and how coaching helped her gain clarity, structure, and confidence.
Don't miss this bold career move in action - simply register below:
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