Want to change careers but don't know where to start?

You keep asking yourself the same question: "Is this really what I want to be doing with my life?" You feel disconnected. Drained. Like your job no longer fits who you are becoming.

You're not just looking for a new role; you're looking for meaning, for a career that aligns with your values, energy, and sense of purpose. You're not alone. More and more young professionals across Europe are rethinking their paths and considering a career change. The problem isn't lack of motivation; it's not knowing where to begin, or how to move forward without burning out.

I'm a work psychologist and career coach with over 6 years of experience. I've supported hundreds of people in navigating transitions like this. I know what it feels like to be stuck; and how powerful it is to finally move forward.

In this article, I'll share the 5 key ingredients of a successful career change: practical advice, mindset tools, and honest insights to help you take aligned, sustainable steps toward work that actually fulfills you. Whether you're just starting to question your current path, or already drafting your resignation letter, this guide will meet you where you are; and help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

Before updating your CV, applying for courses, or even scrolling through job boards, there's one thing you need to do first: Look inward. Because you can't build a meaningful new career if you don't know who you are right now; what drives you, what drains you, and what matters most to you.

Many people begin a career change by jumping into action. But without clarity, they end up switching roles only to feel just as frustrated months later. That's why self-awareness is step one. Not because it's "nice", but because it's strategic.

1.a. What you already know (but may be avoiding)

You may already know something isn't working. That your job feels flat, misaligned, or emotionally exhausting. You may even have a few ideas about what you'd rather be doing… but they feel vague, unrealistic, or scary. Here's the truth: It's not that you don't know what you want; it's that you've learned to doubt it. Self-awareness helps you listen to yourself again. Not the fear, not the pressure. But the part of you that knows what makes you feel alive.

1.b. Ask yourself the right questions

Here are a few prompts to explore honestly: What gives you energy; even after a long day? What makes you feel useful, aligned, or proud? What parts of your job drain you the most? When have you felt most "you" in your work? This is where you start to find your path; not by copying someone else's success, but by reconnecting with what already lives inside you.

1.c. Identify your strengths, values, and transferable skills

A powerful career change starts with understanding what you already bring to the table. Get clear on your natural strengths; what do people consistently praise you for? Your core values; freedom, growth, stability, impact, creativity? Your transferable skills; communication, problem-solving, empathy, systems thinking? You don't have to reinvent yourself from scratch; but you do have to realign with your unique combination of abilities and aspirations.

1.d. Tools to help with clarity

If this reflection feels overwhelming, don't worry; there are great tools to support you: Personality assessments (MBTI, CliftonStrengths, VIA character strengths), journaling prompts or guided self-reflection, the Ikigai method to explore what you love, what you're good at, and what the world needs, or working with a career coach or psychologist to help you connect the dots. You're not alone in this. Getting support doesn't mean you're broken; it means you're committed.

One of the biggest myths about career change is that you have to "start over." You don't. You might need to learn new skills, yes; but you're not starting from nothing. You already have experience, strengths, and abilities that can carry over into a new path. The key is to build on what you have, and fill in the gaps with purpose.

2.a. Evaluate what you already bring to the table

Before signing up for any course, take inventory of your current skillset: What have you learned through past jobs, even if unofficially? What do you know how to do that's valuable in any industry (communication, project management, tech tools, empathy…)? What roles or tasks have felt natural for you? You likely already have transferable skills that will help you in your next chapter; you just need to identify and frame them.

2.b. Research the path: what qualifications or training are required?

Not all career paths require a degree. Some do; but many don't. Instead, they might require a short course, a professional certificate, or even just a strong portfolio. Before you dive into learning, explore: How long will it take to become qualified? Can you learn online or part-time? Is a full degree necessary, or is there an accelerated route? Are there any recognised certifications for this role?

For example, becoming a UX designer, web developer, or digital marketer often takes 3–12 months of focused training; not four years of school. In contrast, if you're aiming to become a psychologist, nurse, or teacher, you'll likely need an official degree and licensing process. It's all about being informed and realistic about what your desired path requires.

2.c. Choose the right learning path for your situation

When retraining for a new career, consider your current time availability, your budget (there are many free or low-cost options), whether you prefer structured learning or self-paced, and if you'll need practical projects or certifications to prove your skills. Examples of learning options include online platforms (Coursera, Skillshare, Domestika, Udemy…), bootcamps (for tech, design, business), local adult education programs or vocational schools, sponsored training programs via your government or region, and mentorship, shadowing, or part-time freelancing to learn by doing.

2.d. Look into funding or support options

Depending on where you live, there may be public or private training support programs available. In France, for example, you can use your CPF (Compte Personnel de Formation). In Spain or Switzerland, there are regional initiatives for adult upskilling and career reintegration. Some employers will even fund your training if you present a strong internal transition plan. Don't assume everything has to come out of your pocket; do the research.

You've gained clarity. You're building new skills. But before making the leap, there's a vital step that most people skip; and regret later: Validate your career change before you commit. Because let's be honest: the dream version of a job and the real daily experience of it are often very different. This stage is about getting as close as possible to the reality of your new field; so that your next move is based on truth, not fantasy.

3.a. Learn about real working conditions

Before switching careers, ask yourself: What are the typical working hours in this role? Is it mostly desk-based, client-facing, remote, or physical? What's the emotional and mental load of the job? Will I be working alone or as part of a team? Is the pace flexible, fast, or deadline-heavy? Example: working in healthcare, education, or social services can be incredibly meaningful; but also emotionally taxing. Working in tech might allow for remote flexibility, but may involve intense focus and high expectations. Understanding the day-to-day experience helps you determine if the lifestyle actually suits you.

3.b. Research the job market and average salary

A career path might sound exciting… but is it financially and practically sustainable? Ask yourself: Are there plenty of job openings in this field? Is this a growing industry or a declining one? What's the average entry-level salary? What does career progression look like over 2–5 years? Where to find this info: job platforms like LinkedIn, Glassdoor, Indeed, salary reports (Robert Half, PayScale), national employment data or labor market trends in your country, and forums and blogs of people working in that field. Pro tip: Google things like "average salary [job title] in [country]" or "is [career] in demand in 2025?"

3.c. Talk to people already doing the job

This is one of the most powerful things you can do. Real conversations = real insights. Start by reaching out to professionals on LinkedIn, joining Slack groups, online forums, or industry Discord communities, and watching YouTube interviews or listening to podcasts featuring career switchers. Ask questions like: What surprised you most when you started this job? What do you love about it? What's hard? What advice would you give someone entering this field now? If you could go back, would you choose this path again? People are often happy to share; especially if you're curious, respectful, and not asking for a job.

3.d. Try before you commit; "test drive" your new career

If possible, immerse yourself in the work before making big moves. Here's how: Ask to shadow someone for a day, do a short volunteer role in your field of interest, offer your help on a small freelance project, try a side hustle version of the job; consulting, tutoring, creating content, or join a weekend workshop or hands-on course. Just one day of real-world experience can be more valuable than hours of theoretical research. You'll know in your gut if it feels right.

Once you've clarified what you want and explored your options, it's time to turn your vision into a concrete action plan. This is the part that makes the difference between daydreaming about a career change… and actually living it. Because even the most exciting change can become overwhelming without structure. But with a clear roadmap? You build momentum, stay focused, and avoid burnout.

4.a. How long does a career change really take?

There's no one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on your starting point, your chosen path, and how much time you can dedicate. As a rough guide: Quick transitions (3–6 months) if your new field is close to your current one or doesn't require deep retraining. Moderate transitions (6–18 months) if you're learning new skills or balancing training with a full-time job. Longer transitions (1.5–3 years) if your new path requires a full degree or official certification. Career change is not a race. It's a process of alignment.

4.b. How much does it cost to change careers?

The costs can vary depending on the type of training (free courses vs. full-time programs), whether you'll reduce work hours or quit your job temporarily, and additional expenses like transport, childcare, materials, etc. Create a simple budget with your training costs, your income (including savings, side income, potential funding), your essential living costs, and any available grants, government programs, or employer support. In France, for example, you may be able to use your Compte Personnel de Formation (CPF). In Spain or Switzerland, there are public retraining programs for adults. Don't let money stop you before you've researched your options; there's often more support than you think.

4.c. When is the "best time" to change careers?

Truthfully? There's no perfect moment. But here are signs that it is your time: You feel stuck, unmotivated, or misaligned in your current role. You fantasize about doing something else almost every week. You're waking up with dread more often than joy. You're ready to invest in something for yourself, not just your employer. The best time is when you stop waiting and start preparing; even if it's small steps.

4.d. Build your step-by-step plan

You don't need a 5-year plan. But you do need a 5-step one. Here's a simple framework: Define your clear goal (e.g., become a data analyst by next year), break it down (training, portfolio, networking, job search), create a timeline (map out what you'll do monthly or weekly), make a budget (track your expenses and financial runway), block weekly time (even 2 hours/week consistently creates progress), use a tracker (Notion, Trello, Google Sheets… whatever works), and get support (accountability partner, mentor, coach, online community). Remember: your plan doesn't have to be perfect. It just needs to move you forward.

Changing careers isn't just about skills, strategy, or smart planning. It's about staying grounded; mentally and emotionally; through every stage of the journey. Because even with the best plan, fear, doubt, and stress will show up. That's not a sign to stop; it's a sign you're growing. This is where your mindset becomes your greatest asset.

5.a. Your inner voice can move you forward; or shut you down

You might catch yourself thinking: "What if I fail?" "It's too late to start over." "I'm not qualified enough." "What will people think?" This is your brain trying to protect you from risk… by keeping you small. And while these thoughts are normal, they're not facts. The key is not to silence them; but to build a stronger, wiser voice alongside them.

5.b. Use affirmations and mental rehearsal to rewire your beliefs

Positive affirmations are more than feel-good phrases; they're a practical tool to change your internal narrative and reduce self-doubt. Examples: "I am capable of learning new things and adapting." "I trust myself to build a career that reflects who I am." "Every step I take is progress; even if it's small." "I deserve to feel fulfilled and proud of my work." Neuroscience shows that repetition and visualization create new neural pathways. So don't just say it once; practice it daily. It's not about pretending everything's perfect. It's about reclaiming your focus and energy, so fear doesn't drive the bus.

5.c. Protect your energy and filter external noise

The truth is, not everyone will understand your desire to change. You might hear: "But you already have a stable job…" "You're lucky to be where you are; why risk it?" "Are you sure this isn't just a phase?" Here's your reminder: You don't need everyone's permission to evolve. What you need is to protect your mindset and environment. Surround yourself with people who believe in growth, encourage experimentation, and don't define you by your current title.

5.d. Create emotional routines to stay centered

Career change can be overwhelming; so don't rely on motivation alone. Build small rituals that nourish you: Breathing exercises before interviews or big decisions, short mindfulness breaks or movement to release tension, journaling your fears, wins, or lessons, and audio practices that reinforce focus and calm. This is where Affirmable comes in; a mobile app designed to help you stay mentally strong and emotionally supported during career transitions. With positive affirmations designed for change and self-belief, calming background soundscapes and guided breathing, and quick tools to refocus your energy when stress creeps in. Affirmable helps you rewire your mindset, one session at a time; whether you're just starting or already in motion.

5.e. Celebrate your progress; not just your outcome

Some days will feel easy. Others won't. And that's okay. What matters is not perfection; it's persistence. Celebrate every email you send, class you complete, conversation you initiate, and fear you face. You're not "starting over." You're starting aligned.