Switching Tack

For as long as I can remember, I wanted to "help people". In fact, in my year seven yearbook, I said I wanted to "help people or work with dolphins" when I grew up. Well, the dolphin thing hasn't really panned out, but the notion of helping people has remained a constant striving of mine.

Studying Psychology at The University of Queensland seemed like a logical choice to get into an industry to help people as well as helping me learn more about what makes people tick. Discovering an interest in the helping side of Psychology, I started my Masters of Counselling the year after graduating with an undergraduate degree in Psychology.

Now, three years later, working within the industry I spent six years studying for, I've realised that there's more to helping people than counselling. While I have enjoyed working as a counsellor, I have discovered other things ignite my passion while still fitting into the 'helping people' goal.

So, what's a girl to do? I decided to embark on the highly daunting task of switching careers. I have learned so much already and I am only halfway there. These are the top 10 things that I have learned so far:

1. Reflect. What it is about your current role or field that isn't working for you?
2. Speak up. If you feel comfortable, it might be worth speaking to and getting support from your manager. They might be able to help you move somewhere else within the organisation or let you take time off work to pursue other opportunities.
3. "The things you are passionate about are not random, they are your calling." - Fabienne Frederickson. Don't be afraid to explore things that bring you joy or nourish you - they could be very telling about what energises and drives you.
4. Talk to people. I have consulted my family, my friends, my partner, my professional connections, and a careers counsellor. Being exposed to new perspectives can seem overwhelming but it can also stimulate new thinking.
5. Get out and about. I got more involved in my alumni network and now attend their events. I also look out for learning opportunities (there's a stack of free workshops and online courses), professional development events, and chances to network. Even if you end up speaking to someone who doesn't particularly interest you or you feel you wasted time hearing about a career path you probably don't want to take, it's still valuable learning what you respond to and what you don't.
6. Make space for the things that matter. If you are in career limbo and you don't know what direction to take, make sure that you're still giving your brain downtime from this conundrum and doing things that bring you joy, relaxation, and energy. For me, rediscovering recreational reading and colouring in were important to giving myself 'time out'.
7. Do things for free. Sometimes when you're looking to make a career change, there might be a gap in your skill set. Explore what volunteering or learning opportunities exist to pick up new skills and make yourself more attractive to prospective employers.
8. Boost your online presence. I was amazed at how much I didn't know about the wonderful and mysterious world of LinkedIn. Make sure you have an appropriate photo, that your experience and employment are up to date, your role descriptions short and punchy, and your summary concise and informative.
9. Tune in to yourself. List of all the different things you enjoy. Then, figure out from that list, what - if any - you could conceivably turn into a job or side project. Then, determine what you would actually be willing to do. Finally, research all those prospects and see where they lead you!
10. Don't give up. The job market is tough, job applications/interviews may be gruelling, and you may feel frustrated or demoralised at times. When you feel overwhelmed, go back and remember why you started this . Reconnect with that fire, passion, interest, drive, and search for meaning to help get you through the tough times. You will find what you're looking for - eventually.

My 'journey' isn't over yet, but I am already grateful for all the things I've learned along the way. And, if I can help even one person by writing this, that in itself is a wonderful thing.