4 Tips on Taking that first step of transition to a new career
Posted on October 07, 2018 by Malcolm Fiellies, One of Thousands of Executive Coaches on Noomii.
It is quite difficult to take that first step of career transition, entering the unknown. These 4 tips that will assist in taking that first step.
“A Journey of a thousand miles begin with a single step” Laozi
This quote has stuck with me ever since we designed our wedding invitation. It was so apt as we were embarking on a new journey or path of life, one we didn’t know where it will end, but we needed to take that first step. Taking that first step, however big or small it is, can be scary. Looking back, if I didn’t take that step, I would not know the joys of a happy marriage and family.
It will always be difficult to take that defining step. This can be choosing a path of study at university, starting a new career or even changing your career path, or potentially starting your own business. As scary as it may seem, all you need is to take a step towards and start your journey. Something inside of you is pushing into that path, use that desire to push you forward.
Allow me to share a few ideas to help you take that step
1. Visualise and get excited about the journey and possible end state
Having a picture of the positive end state will encourage you to take that first step. The clearer you see it, the more excited you will get. Picture yourself in that new job or running your own business, what does it look like, what do you look like. Let that picture excite you.
2. Tell someone was the slogan of a local cellphone network.
Once you can visualise your dream and you are excited about it, tell the people around you, especially those that will encourage and support you. They are very good accountability partners
3. Do your research
Find out what you need to reach your goal, a new skill, financing, mentor, partner, equipment, property etc. Use the information to help you with some of your fears of starting this journey.
4. Then ask yourself what is that one thing you can do today to get you closer to your goal
You only need that one thing, it could register for a course, or make yourself known to a manager, start a social media page, or write a blog. Whatever it may be, decide on it and do it.
Taking that first step can be scary at first. One of my coaching clients taught me that sometimes you just need to do it afraid. You can start your journey by just taking that first step.
You may not have all you need to get to the end goal right now, even so, you can start your journey, as Arthur Ashe said “Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can."
It is never too late to take that first step Take that first step and let your journey begin.
