I meet so many people, at every stage of life, who feel certain they can no longer continue where they are or doing what they do. They know they need a change—but they’re unsure about what’s next.
First and foremost, this feeling is completely normal. If you’re being hard on yourself for feeling this way, take a moment to recognize the courage it takes to acknowledge the need for change. Listening to your inner voice and starting to explore possibilities is a powerful first step.
That said, not knowing the answer yet can feel overwhelming. Our minds crave certainty and clear direction. I know that feeling all too well because I’ve been there.
Years ago, I was working at IBM in a role many would envy. I was making good money and had what looked like a dream job on the outside. But I wasn’t happy. Happiness at work matters deeply to me, and I knew I couldn’t stay in that role. Yet, like so many others, I had no idea what I wanted to do next.
I considered many options as many of my clients do:
Working at another company in a similar role
Finding ways to bring more of myself and my talents into my current job, hoping to love it more (back then, leaving a corporate job wasn’t the norm at all- this one took me too long!)
Starting my own business
Switching to a completely different career
I was open to everything but had no clarity. It took me years to figure it out, but eventually, working with a career coach changed my life. That experience inspired me to become a coach myself. Now, I help others navigate similar transitions, drawing from my own journey. It is so easy for me to relate to others!
One of the first steps in any career transition is self-reflection. It’s about understanding who you are, what you value, and what lights you up. To get you started, here are some reflective questions I often ask my clients:
What do you like most about your current (or most recent) job?
What’s missing for you to feel more fulfilled in your work?
What tasks or activities drain your energy and motivation?
Is there someone whose career or life you admire? What specifically draws you to their path?
What kind of books, podcasts, or profiles do you gravitate toward? These can reveal your natural interests and passions.
Think of a time when you felt energized and excited about what you were doing. What was it? Where were you? Who were you with?
What are your non-negotiable values? The things you simply can’t live without in your work and life.
What do people often seek your help with—both at work and in life? These can be clues to your strengths and natural talents.
When do you lose track of time? What are you doing when you feel completely absorbed and in flow?
These questions are a starting point to help you uncover insights about yourself and your ideal next steps. Remember, career transitions don’t happen overnight—but with curiosity, self-compassion, and the right guidance, you can create a path that brings you joy and meaning. Make sure you take some "me" time to sit down and answer them. The answers may come in time. Open a new document, better yet a notebook (since writing with pen and downloading is even better for us is what the scientists are saying).
If you’re ready to explore what’s next in your career, keep following these newsletters and my LinkedIn posts since I share my experience all the time. If you have questions, reach out to me at LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ozlemerol/
Thank you. Always love to hear your comments and see what helps!
Some of these blog posts are also part of my bi-weekly newsletter that I publish at LinkedIn. You can subscribe if you do not want to miss them here.
Best,
Ozlem Brooke Erol
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