We've all done it, walked into a ultra cool and swanky
atmosphere, saw all the employees with looks of happiness and success on their
faces then thought to ourselves, "how
did he/she get in a place like this and why am I not here?” This is Career Envy.
It happens to us all, that is especially true when we realize that we are stuck
in a rut our current place of employment. For me it was walking into the local
newspapers offices and seeing all the reporters and editors busy looking alive
with the "time is of the essence but I love my fast paced job" look
on their faces. This feeling made me wonder to myself "did I make the
right move"? What can I do to make it here now? How didn’t I think of this
earlier and is it too late? There are 3
things to consider before deciding to make a major career move, especially into the arts.
1.
How
financially beneficial would this move be?- we all want to work in the
field of our dreams. Making big bucks and living the lavish lifestyle, but the
reality of it all is that, bills are reoccurring fixtures in our lives and
unless you have a wealth of cash flow (which most of us average folk don’t) we
need a job that will bring in some type of income. The concept of making your hobbies into means
of income is exciting, but not always the most profitable options.
2.
Do your
research- trading in your boring 9-5 for a lavish vocation has to be done
with calculated intention. As tempting as it may be, you can’t just drop
everything and walk into the place you want to be and expect everything to just
magically fall into place. Check into what the growth potential is in your
desired field. Where are the best jobs located and what sort of educational
resources are available to you in this particular field? Also another great way to get where you want
to go is to simply ask some one that is already there. Walk back into that
swanky office and ask questions from the people that can tell you exactly how
to get the desk/office/spot next to them.
3.
Be ready
for the change. Sometimes the downfall in doing what it is we feel were
destined to do, is that we have to sacrifice for the things we want
most. This may require downsizing and cutbacks. Granted even with all the
education needed to get the job done effectively there still may be a lack of
experience-, which in some cases means more to an employer that any degree or
classroom taught knowledge. Get ready to begin proving yourself with more than educational credentials and remember this can take time and sometimes even a financial investment.
As a final note I want to encourage all of you photographers, freelance writers, chefs, makeup artists, jewelry makers etc. that no matter
what has to be done in order to land your dream job, remember that a bit of
sacrifice, some discipline and a slice of humble pie may go a long way.... Good
Luck on your Dream Job Hunt!
For more info on turning your hobbies into careers or making career moves check out these websites:
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