Careers rarely go in a straight line. People change fields, take breaks, move countries and start again. A plan does not need to be perfect. It needs to give you a direction and a next step.
Start with where you are
Write honest answers to these questions:
- What parts of my work or studies do I enjoy most?
- What am I good at, according to others, not only to me?
- What do I want less of?
- What matters most right now: income, learning, stability, time with family, location?
There are no right answers. They just help you see what to look for.
Explore options
Make a short list of two or three possible next steps. For example: a similar job at a bigger company, a move into a related field, a promotion, a course, or starting freelance work.
For each one, find out:
- What do people in that role actually do day to day?
- What skills and qualifications do the job adverts ask for?
- What is the usual pay range where you want to live?
The best source is people already doing the work. Ask for 15 minutes of their time and come with three good questions. Most people are happy to help someone who is polite and prepared.
Find the gap
Compare what the next step needs with what you have now. The difference is your gap. It might be a skill, a certificate, a type of experience, or simply a stronger CV and network.
Make a 90-day plan
Big goals feel far away. Break the first part into small actions you can finish in about three months:
- one skill to learn, with a weekly time;
- one project or task at work that builds that skill;
- three people to talk to;
- your CV updated for the new direction.
Review and adjust
Every month, look at what you did and what you learned. Plans change when you learn more, and that is a good sign, not a failure.
A word on change
Moving to a new field often means starting a little lower for a while. That can be worth it when the new direction suits you better. Talk it through with people you trust, and look after your finances while you change.
