How to know if it’s time to change careers | The Way We Work, a TED series

Introduction

The speaker introduces themselves and reflects on their varied career path, highlighting the importance of finding a balance between passion and skill.

Finding Your Path

• The speaker did not have a clear career goal while growing up.

• They have worked as an English teacher, attorney, video game creator, and currently as a toilet paper salesman.

• Life is about finding the intersection of what you love and what you're good at.

• It can be challenging to find this intersection.

Struggling in Unsatisfying Jobs

The speaker shares their experience of working in jobs they didn't love and emphasizes the need for continuous learning.

Learning and Career Satisfaction

• Professional life is about learning. If you lose interest in learning, it may indicate that there is no future for you in that industry.

• Gut feelings play a significant role in making career changes. If you constantly think about making a change or investigating new opportunities, trust your instincts.

• Disliking certain aspects of your current job or having issues with colleagues should not be the sole reason for changing careers. Short-term pain is inevitable in any job.

Preparing for a Career Change

The speaker provides advice on preparing for a career change, including networking, financial planning, and exploring side hustles.

Steps to Take Before Making the Jump

• Networking is crucial. Reach out to people who can provide guidance and advice regarding your desired career change.

• Finances should be considered before transitioning into a new career. Lower pay or even no pay initially might be involved.

• Engaging in side hustles can help gain experience and determine if you truly enjoy the new field.

Starting a New Career

The speaker offers suggestions for starting a new career, such as maintaining professional relationships, leveraging previous skills, and embracing the support of a new team.

Transitioning into a New Job

• Avoid burning bridges with former colleagues. Maintain professional relationships as the world is small and you may encounter them again.

• Reflect on the skills acquired in previous careers. Many of these skills are transferable and applicable to your new job.

• Embrace the support of your new team. They want you to succeed and will be rooting for you.

Conclusion

The speaker provides insights and advice on making career changes, emphasizing the importance of finding passion and skill alignment, continuous learning, networking, financial planning, exploring side hustles, maintaining professional relationships, leveraging previous skills, and embracing support from a new team.

Timestamps have been associated with relevant sections to facilitate studying the transcript.