When you’re unhappy with your work situation, it can affect everything else in your life, leaving you more prone to illnesses, impairing your attitude, and hampering your relationships. Rather than feeling stuck or dissatisfied and dealing with the implications, there are several options available to women looking for ways to reshape their careers. Read on for a few different ideas to help put you on a more desirable path.
Consider a new direction
Little can take the wind out of your sails more quickly than a job that’s a bad fit. If a whole new career is what you need, but you don’t know how to make it happen, there are some surprising avenues available. But first, it’s important to put some thought into what it is that makes you happy.
Your personality traits will dictate how you feel about what you do every day. For instance, U.S. News points out if you love helping others, you might enjoy becoming a speech pathologist, dietitian, or social worker.
You might think you aren’t qualified to pursue something like speech pathology if you aren’t already trained, or if you can’t attend school full-time, but don’t let that stop you! There are numerous scholarships available to women who are going back to school.
On top of that, you might be in a better position education-wise than you think. If you have a bachelor’s degree, you could enroll in an accredited online graduate program, keep working while you attend school, then complete your clinical hours to fulfill your requirements at the end.
Speech pathologists perform an interesting and invaluable service. You would assess and treat people with communication issues, such as from an injury or developmental delay. It’s an opportunity to not only help other people in a wide variety of circumstances but to become involved in a field believed to hold a strong future outlook. Consider it an investment in a sound, secure, and fulfilling future.
If becoming a speech pathologist isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other options. Very creative people might enjoy a role in marketing, editing, or floral design. Those who love to work with their hands might find becoming a butcher, or sign language interpreter to their liking.
To help sort things out, try taking a quiz designed to mesh your likes and dislikes with various career options.
Time to fly solo?
Maybe you enjoy your vocation, but you’re butting your head on the top rung of the ladder. If you have expertise to offer others or have a brilliant idea ready to take shape, it might be time to start your own business. Entrepreneur notes you should begin with a business plan, which outlines your unique niche, defines your objectives and establishes steps to reach your goals.
Since your finances will play a key role in your plan, note there are several grants and loans designed to help women who are developing their own business. Sort the options and consider applying for one that fits your situation.
Keep on climbing
Perhaps you love both what you do and where you work, but you feel you are ready for more responsibility. There are several ways to get noticed in your workplace and ensure your boss sees your value. For instance, many supervisors like to promote those strong enough to challenge their thought processes. You don’t need to be disagreeable, but if you see a better way to do something, say so in a mature and professional manner. Hone in on being a team player, work ahead, and be ready to take on more.
Also, think about how you contribute to the workplace atmosphere in a broader sense. Make sure you participate in extracurricular activities such as parties and social gatherings and avoid being involved in office drama.
If you’re ready to explore new avenues, there are plenty of opportunities out there. Perhaps it’s time to go for a promotion, head out on your own, or take your career in a fresh direction. Whatever the case, there are ways you can make it happen, and you’ll be happier in the long run.
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