In 2018 I quit my career of 15 years to set up my own business in an industry that was completely different to what I had spent most of my working life doing.
Two years prior to handing in my notice I started to train as a coach. My ‘day job’ was in marketing communications but I no longer felt fulfilled and kept coming back to the question I asked myself ‘What am I doing for the world?’
At times it felt scary to leave behind a career that I’d worked so hard for. But I knew I would be happier in my new role as a coach.
Here’s what I learnt:
People change careers all of the time. Despite feeling like I was stepping into something completely new, I was surprised at how many of the skills I had picked up in my career could be used in my role as a coach
You’re never too old
Growing feels good. Changing career meant learning lots of new skills and theory and despite worrying my brain wouldn’t keep up, I actually felt energised and excited about what I was learning
It is an emotional rollercoaster. Some days I felt in control and on a roll and other days I felt like the new girl who had so much to learn
Others will judge – let them. You know the truth about what you are doing and why
Those that matter will believe in you. This really only matters if you believe in yourself though!
There is a whole network of people out there ready to support you. I worked with a brilliant coach who was also a mentor
Social media was key for me – not only have I used the platform to communicate with my own audience but I also found so many inspiring people to follow
Reaching out to others who inspired me helped build my network. People love hearing that they have had a positive influence on you – don’t be scared of telling people how much you admire them
During times when I felt disheartened, I was so grateful that I had already done the work on my ‘why’. Having a clear sense of my purpose and reason for changing career helped to keep me focused when I lost confidence or motivation
You find strength when you need it. Believing in yourself is your biggest superpower
If you want to do it then you will make it happen. It is totally worth it to create the life you want to live
Having someone to be accountable to was crucial for me. Knowing my coach had high expectations of me gave me the confidence and the determination to take the action needed.