When we think of a new career we generally think of deciding that wed like to do something different with our lives and making that move to that new career. Often, however, it doesnt really work that way. Career changes may be something we didnt anticipate, we didnt ask for, we didnt welcome and something that just got thrust upon us.
Middle-aged men are especially prone to this forced career move. In fact, the chances that a middle aged man will be pushed into a new change due to unexpected job loss is twice as likely as twice as likely now as it was just a decade ago. In the United States alone one million males are forced into a midlife career change due to downsized, merged or bankrupt companies. Many of these, finding new employment difficult, head into entrepreneurship or partnership.
Women arent far behind in this non-optional career change either. Technology evolutions and downsizing affect women in the workforce as well, not only because they have to change career midstream but also because they are unemployed spouses of males who lose their jobs. These women must enter the workforce, some without having ever done so in the past.
Some career change is voluntary and welcome, of course. Divorce can either necessitate a career change or make possible a long-sought career change. Empty nest syndrome may leave caregivers with time on their hands to pursue their dreams.
No matter whether a career change is voluntary or thrust upon us, there are some tips that help make the transition a more peaceful, successful and productive life transition.
The first thing we all must do is assume that we will have at least one career move and perhaps many in the course of our adult lives. As much as we are able we should do what our parents tried to teach us as children save for a rainy day. A cash reserve of about six months salary or at the very least three is important. Should you be laid off what you dont want to have to do is make a career change that you dont welcome simply because finances require you to take the first job that comes along or one you dont like but one that pays better than your dream occupation.
Keeping abreast of the latest technology and the latest workforce gadgets keeps your skills marketable. No matter what career you change to youll be welcomed if you know the latest computer and communication software and hardware. Great communication and public speaking skills, knowledge of software programs such as Word, Excel, Spreadsheet and Power Point can be valuable no matter what career change you make.
Networking in your industry and the related industries, but outside your workplace can be immensely helpful with any career change. The old saying that its not what you know, its who you know is still true today.
Consider returning to school if you find yourself forced into a career change. Look into the possibilities of education grants and loans. See if you might be able to live off savings and a part time job while you train for that new career. Theres no reason that you cant make career lemonade out of that lemon of an unexpected career change.
Most hobbyists are not born with an instinct to pursue their chosen crafts. They may have learned their hobbies from someone close to them, or they could have gone through a lot of trial and error before they found something they liked. Perhaps they learned to knit from spending weekends at their grandmother's, or they learned woodburning from summer camp trips. These type of experiences tend to stick with us when we do something we enjoyed doing.
Here are some quick tips to help you find a hobby you can call your own:
** Think back to your childhood. Were there any creative things that you recall and enjoyed doing? If so, why not give them another try? This is the most common and fastest way to think of a hobby. Those summer camp projects, or mother's day gifts that you made when you were a kid are probably floating around in the back of your mind somewhere.
I can even give you a personal example here, because this is how I found my passion in cross stitching. I did my first cross stitch project when I was 8 years old. It was to earn a Girl Scout badge! My entire troop stitched a christmas goose on red sweatshirts using waste canvas. It was actually a really over-zealous beginner project! I was the first one done, and I helped other girls in the troop finish their projects by showing them how to keep the thread untangled and move along the different lines. I asked my mom to buy me a new project, and it just continued from there! I'm still cross stitching at the age of 30 and I love it!
** Consider the things you buy the most. Do you follow all the latest fashion trends? Consider trying knitting or sewing. You could make your own fashion accessories. Scarves are hot and trendy right now! Do you love scented candles? Maybe you could make your own and experiment with new scents and colors.
** Take a walk around at the local craft store. Browse pattern books and project kits and see if anything strikes your fancy. You can usually find beginner kits and books on just about any subject at the craft shop! If you're unsure what type of craft you want to try, then pay a visit to a broad subject craft shop like Ben Franklin, Michael's Crafts, or Jo-Ann's. If you're specifically looking for a needlework related project then you may choose to visit a Local Needlework Shop (also referred to as an LNS) in your area. They'll carry a great selection of needlework projects and the shop owner's are usually very knowledgeable in the area of needlecrafts so they can help you find a beginner level project that's right for you.
* See if your local community college or craft store offers any craft courses that interest you. The tuition and fees are usually quite reasonable, and you'll learn from someone who really knows what he's doing. Classes like these are a great way to learn new skills for your hobby as well. Most commonly you'll find quilting and embroidery classes when it comes to needlework categories. General crafts are often offered as beginner courses as well, such as floral arrangements, wreath making, basket weaving, painting, ceramics, etc...
Finding the right craft could happen right away, or it could take months of trying different things. But once you find something that makes you happy, you'll be glad you took the time to look. Crafting gives you a sense of accomplishment, not to mention lots of nice stuff to keep or give as gifts!
Both James Copper & Gen Wright are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
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