Have you ever found yourself wondering, “Is it time for a change?” Maybe it’s the fear of redundancy, the pace of technological change, or simply a desire to do something that feels more meaningful. Lately, I’ve been speaking with professionals who are considering a shift in industry, and while the reasons vary, one feeling keeps surfacing: they feel stuck.
And often, they’re scared they don’t have the right skills to offer.
Should I stay or should I go?
It’s completely natural to feel torn. On one hand, there’s comfort in what you know. On the other, there’s curiosity – a pull toward something new, something that might just surprise you. But then the doubts creep in:
- “What if I’m not qualified?”
- “Will anyone take me seriously?”
- “What if I fail?”
These thoughts are more common than you might think. They’re part of the human experience – especially when we’re standing on the edge of change. But here’s the truth: your skills are more transferable than you realise. And you don’t have to navigate this alone.
Why does changing industries feel so scary?
Because it’s not just about switching jobs. It’s about challenging the story you’ve told yourself for years.
We build our careers around experience, identity, and comfort. We stay because we like our colleagues, or because it’s familiar – even when something inside us is nudging us to explore. That root cause for wanting change doesn’t go away just because we ignore it.
There’s also the fear of starting over. Imposter syndrome shows up, whispering that you’re not good enough, not experienced enough, not ready. You worry about how recruiters will view your background, or how you’ll fit into a team that seems to know more than you.
That’s where a career coach can make all the difference.
How a Career Coach can support your transition
Working with a career coach can be the missing piece to your career puzzle. Here’s how they help:
- Clarity: A coach helps you uncover why you want to make a change. They’ll guide you in aligning your values, strengths, and goals with industries that reflect who you are now – not who you were five years ago.
- Strategy: Together, you’ll build a realistic, structured plan. From identifying exciting industries to spotting (and bridging) any skill gaps, you’ll have a roadmap that feels achievable.
- Transferable Skills: You likely have dozens of skills that are valuable in other sectors. A coach helps you reframe your CV, cover letter, and interview pitch to highlight your value, not just your experience.
- Confidence: Perhaps most importantly, a coach is someone in your corner. They believe in your potential and help you keep moving forward – even when self-doubt creeps in.
You deserve a career that lights you up
One of my favourite sayings is having “fire in your belly” – that feeling of being inspired, challenged, and fulfilled at the end of the day. If you’re seeking more meaning, flexibility, or better alignment with your values, switching industries might be the door to something unexpected and exciting.
Yes, it can feel like a leap of faith. But with the right support, it’s a leap you can take.
Ready to explore your next chapter?
If you’re sitting on the edge of a career change, wondering if it’s too late, too risky, or too scary – know this: you’re not alone. And you don’t have to do it alone.
I’m always happy to connect with professionals who feel stuck, uncertain, or ready for something new. Let’s explore your next chapter – together.