The Professional Redo
I never realized how many verbs describe a 'Redo' that begin with R. Remake, resurrect, rebuild, remake, renovate, but in the context here, they all mean starting over.
We are all asked as children 'what do you want to be when you grow up?'. Then we grow up. What we have become is not always where we thought we would be. But the good news is that it does not have to be permanent. If the first career journey becomes more of a chore than an inspiration, it may be time to rethink. Life is a never ending serious of choices, why should your chosen area of work be any different?
Often, you will find that Entrepreneurs were once something all together different than the business owner path they are on when you meet them. There are many reasons for this and often the desire to be your own boss is at or near the top. The desire to effect change in your own way is also high on that list. I know it was for me. So, how is the best way to accomplish a professional redo?
Focus here is on the professional who does not have a trust fund, a wealthy spouse, or a financial sponsor, but the person who needs to earn their own living and make changes that still permit them the basic necessities. First and foremost, inspiration and desire to start a new career are essential. Always seeking that purpose is usually driven by passion and desire. This is your fuel in your recharge, it will propel you through the more challenging days when you wonder why you actually did this!
Second, have a plan before you embark on your new career journey. It may mean a return to college for that specific degree. This may be much easier to do at twenty (20) than at forty (40). Keep this in mind, plan accordingly, keep the focus on the ultimate goal and take the path that helps you arrive at your destination on your timeframe. A part-time job or internship during this time is likely critical to help you through the longer days and remind you why you chose to remake your career.
Often the time we have spent in corporate positions provide us with the foundation of moving forward on our own. Lessons learned there should not be forgotten. Working with many others along with clients or customers or patients or even donors in a large professional environment can provide necessary tools to the teamwork and human interaction you will need to succeed on your own.
Thirdly, and in this author's opinion, securing a Mentor and/or Peer Advisor in your new business is a critical step to success. There are many options through the SBA (Small Business Administration), SCORE, Executive Exchange Groups, Chambers of Commerce, etc. Networking among and in your new chosen area of expertise is very important to changing your professional profile.
We have a friend who decided to become an Interior Designer several decades after graduating from college. She recently hired her first employee - a few years after obtaining her Masters in Design and starting her own firm. She was inspired and, with hard work and dedication, made it happen. It is after all te American Dream.
If becoming your own boss, owning your own firm, is the dream you hope for, find the inspiration, design a plan, and take the necessary steps to make it happen. A professional redo is an evolving change, always rekindle that inspiration to keep you moving in new directions.
Be well.
