- Beware of Career Change Advice from Others
- Be Aware of Your Own Blind Spots
- Recognize the Risks of Staying in the Wrong Career
The mental struggle that comes with a career change decision can be harder than the change itself. If you’re feeling the urge to switch paths, you’re not alone.
According to a 2025 Forbes report, about half of American workers are considering a career or industry change—a clear sign that reevaluating one’s professional direction has become the norm. Even for those who report being satisfied in their jobs, the desire for greater purpose and alignment continues to drive career transitions across all generations.
Here are three important things to consider before making a career change.
1. Beware of Career Change Advice From Others
Why Friends and Co-Workers May Hold You Back
Your friends, family, and co-workers often mean well, but their career change advice can keep you stuck. Co-workers may not want to lose camaraderie or face a heavier workload. Family members may fear financial instability.
How to Ask the Right Questions
When you hear objections, don’t stop at the surface. Ask questions like:
- “What is the greatest concern you have about my career change?”
- “What would it take for you to feel comfortable with this decision?”
Identifying fears makes it easier to create a plan that gains their support.
2. Be Aware of Your Own Blind Spots
Figuring Out What You Don’t Want in a Career
Herminia Ibarra, Professor of Organizational Behavior, notes that most people know what they don’t want to do, but struggle to name what they do want. Recognizing what drains you is often the first step toward clarity in a career transition.
Identifying Transferable Skills for a Career Change
The key is shifting your focus from job-specific tasks to transferable skills. For example, an IT professional may carry forward strengths in training, project management, and communication — skills that are valuable in many industries.
Research suggests that only 15% of skills are specific to a role, while 85% are transferable. Think in terms of “portable competencies” that can open doors to new opportunities.
3. Recognize the Risks of Staying in the Wrong Career
The Cost of Not Changing Careers
Staying in a job that drains you carries risks too — including stress, poor health, lost motivation, and missed opportunities for growth. Career change risks exist, but so do the risks of remaining stuck in an unfulfilling role.
Building Confidence for a Career Transition
A successful career shift begins with clarity about who you are, confidence in your value, discernment about outside advice, and alignment with loved ones impacted by your decisions.
Final Thoughts on Career Change Decisions
Making a leap can be intimidating, but with the right preparation and mindset, you can pursue a career that better fits your gifts and passions. Don’t ignore the call to meaningful work, explore your transferable skills, weigh your options carefully, and take courageous steps toward the future God has designed for you, holding fast to His promise in Joshua 1:9: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
This post was written by Kristin Sherry. Kristin is a member of the Crossroads Career Board of Directors. She is the best selling author of YouMap & Your Team Loves Mondays…Right? She joined our board in 2019 and lives with her husband and 4 kids in North Carolina.
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