11 years ago, I made a pivotal decision: I transitioned from a career in documentary filmmaking and graphic design to becoming a counselling therapist. The journey required patience, resilience, and a willingness to grow. Although many considered it risky, I knew deep down that pursuing a Master’s in Counselling Psychology aligned with my values, interests, and natural abilities. Remaining in a dissatisfying career simply wasn’t an option. In retrospect, I’m deeply grateful for the path I chose given the success I’ve had so far. Here’s what I learned from that experience:
1. Trust Your Gut
I’ve observed with my clients at Canada Career Counselling, past experience, whether from childhood or workplace trauma, can prevent them from making change. Therapy can help break free from these limiting patterns and allows us to tap into our own intuitive wisdom and cognitive reasoning. Although others didn’t share my vision and I had my own doubts, I knew it was a fit for me. I turned out to be right.
2. Career Changes = Investments in Your Future
Of course we need to consider reality factors like financial responsibility, time management and life roles that may limit our choices but given the opportunity, switching careers, even in your 40s and 50s, sets you up for decades of fulfilling work. As the saying goes, “The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second-best time is now.”
3. The Power of Career Counselling
During my career transition, working with a career counsellor who was also a licensed mental health practitioner helped me reflect on my personality, values, and skills. Having an unbiased professional guide me was invaluable in helping me make an informed decision.
4. Skills Are Transferable
Many fear making a career change because they think it wastes past education or experience. However, skills are transferable. My background in graphic design became an asset in marketing, branding, and problem-solving. No experience is wasted skills always find new applications.
5. Lived Experience Enhances My Work
My own career journey allows me to specialize in career psychology. I deeply empathize with those facing transitions and get to mentor young professionals just as much as provide guidance to mature adults in the last chapter of their career, based off my lived experience and training in career psychology.
6. Career Counselling Is More Than Just Career Changes
Career Counselling is about aligning your work with your values. If you’re feeling stuck or ready for a change, career counselling can provide the emotional and practical guidance you need.
If you’re considering a change, I’d be honored to help you explore what’s next. Please reach out to us for a free consult so we can hear your story and support you on your next journey.
