Let’s face it, change is scary. When it comes to changing a job or career, the fear can really go sky high. Why is that? You may cling to the thought that being able to find something else that will pay the bills will be too difficult. You may feel stuck in your present job, or you may believe finding something else will take too long.

Despite the fear, let’s say you’ve decided the desire to change your situation is too strong to ignore. Now what? Would you feel better if you discovered the process is much easier than you thought?

Well take heart. Below are 6 easy steps to move you in your desired direction starting TODAY. You’ll be surprised how simple it is to make the real change you desire!

1. Know What You Want

This may take a little soul searching in order to make a final decision. There are many online tools available to help with the self-assessment process. One that I recommend is called the Myers-Briggs Type Inventory (MBTI). This link will take you to the abbreviated but useful edition to help you zero in on your preferences. There are many ways to arrive at knowing what may be a good fit for you in the workplace. This particular instrument will help you understand your personality type, which can provide insights into your work preferences and will help you identify your best bet on career direction and goals.

2. Explore Your Options

One of the most powerful ways to do this is by networking with others. The process of networking is very simple. It involves interacting and talking with people in such a way as to get to know them better. In the process, you learn about their needs and they learn about yours. As a result, you may be able to gain exposure to their acquaintances who may be looking for someone with your skills and interests. In most communities there are plenty of opportunities to network with people in your field of interest.

One outcome of your efforts may be the option of having formal “informational interviews” with people in prominent positions who are willing to give you specific guidance to help you succeed.

3. Get Organized

A vital component of any important change is to budget your time—allowing you to focus on relevant activities within the limited hours available. You may choose to set aside one hour per day to work on your plan while you’re employed. Identify in advance what you want to accomplish and stick to doing things such as career research, networking or other tasks you have outlined in your action plan. Remember, you are investing in yourself. This has a high priority! Simplify other activities to create extra time in your day. Get your family involved as a support. Having them help you create the life you want and deserve can make an important difference. Look at it as a family event.

4. Get Trained

Depending on what you have chosen as your goal, now may be the time to begin training for your new field. You may choose to enroll in a graduate, undergraduate or vocational program to get started. This will affect the amount of time it takes for you to ultimately achieve your career goals.

5. Get Coached

Enlisting the services of a coach can make all the difference in your efforts. Lots of successful people are where they are today because of the presence of a coach.

A career coach will help you move faster to accomplish your daily and long-range tasks. A coach will partner with you on the creation of a strategy, understand your own thinking to ensure you don't standing in your own way, help you manage your environment and clarify your goals. A coach can increase your motivation beyond the levels you achieve on your own. He or she can provide help with such things as job search skills and getting your resume ready. A coach is with you every step of the way and is well worth the investment.

If your finances aren’t yet ready for a coach, purchase a book on the subject, such as, The Portable Coach by Thomas Leonard.

6. Make Your Move

Whether it takes you one month, 6 months, or one year, once you’ve planned your work and worked your plan, take action. It’s time to go for it! By now you have thought through the details, including the financial aspects of making a change, getting your family on board and, most importantly, taking charge of your life. You realize that a career or job change will not threaten your survival and that the fear you felt at the beginning of the process has long faded away.

You are not alone. There are many other people like you who struggle with the issue of career change every day. As a result of taking simple, ongoing and consistent actions, it’s possible to find the type of work you want for the rest of your life—in a short period of time. Make this the year you finally make a difference for yourself!

About the Author

Robert Bowen is a Certified Career Coach who specializes in helping individual veterans and their spouses with transition and career change (www.careercoachconnection.com). He has more than 25 years of private sector Human Resources coaching experience. To have Robert speak at your next event, call 760-271-6385. To receive a free eBook entitled “Ready, Aim, Fire! Hitting the Career Transition Bullseye”, send an e-mail to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it and a link will be sent providing access to the PDF document.