10 ways to overcome fear when changing career

Starting to think about a career change can be very daunting and sometimes overwhelming. Where do you start? What steps are necessary? How do you keep moving forward without becoming overwhelmed by fear?

Here are 10 tips to help you manage the fear of career change:

1. Pace yourself
It can be as quick or slow as you like. You don’t need to do it overnight!

2. Prepare for fear
Accept that you may feel fearful and think about how you'll manage it – who you gonna call when fear strikes?

3. Find positive supporters
Surround yourself with positive supporters and be mindful of naysayers; those who may be risk-averse for themselves as well as others!

4. Test out career ideas
Go on courses, do work experience or work shadowing and talk to potential mentors – this can help you make a more informed decision.

5. Save some money
Save some money to support you through the transition.

6. Have a plan B and a plan C
You may find out you hate plan A!

7. Expect interim steps
Accept there may be one or many interim steps (new jobs, training, going part-time etc.).

8. Create some space
Create some space in your life for the change to come and invite it in.

9. Consider how career change may affect your identity
Recognise that changing career can sometimes affect your sense of identity, particularly if your current role has become a big part of how you see yourself.

10. Keep motivated
Use tools (visual tools, visualisations, affirmations) and get support (career coach, someone who has completed the same career change, peer career changers).