Transitioning to a new career brings about exciting and transformative changes. Stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing new challenges can lead to incredible experiences. Personally, I felt a surge of happiness and clarity about my future when I decided to leave my corporate job. Instead of complaining about my old career, I became eager to discuss the exciting things I was now involved in.
My career transition also brought a newfound sense of focus and prioritisation. I valued every minute of my time and made changes to accommodate my new path. I reduced TV watching, decreased alcohol consumption, and prioritized self-care and exercise. These shifts helped me connect with essential aspects of my journey.
Some might say I became a pain in the arse.
However, such a significant change can impact friendships. When discussing your career change with friends, you may encounter different reactions. Here are the categories my friends fell into:
Cheerleaders
Cheerleaders: These friends were constant sources of support and encouragement. They expressed genuine excitement, praised my decision, and provided a listening ear for my ideas.
The Sceptics
In the end I didn’t have as many sceptics as I imagined I would. But there were a few … these are the friends, who although well-meaning, expressed concern and caution about my transition. They were the first people to question my ideas and highlight risks. Most of the time their doubts stemmed from a place of care and wanting the best for me. Other times I think it stemmed from a place of well-meaning ignorance. I mean what the hell is a career coach anyway? While their comments hurt me initially, as time progressed as I saw them as opportunities to consider and refine my plans. If they didn’t understand what a career coach did then how would my clients, I said to myself. It got me motivated to refine my elevator pitch and marketing messages.
The Innovators
These friends resonated with my desire for growth and transformation. While I may not have known them well initially, we bonded over shared aspirations and ambition. They shared their own experiences and introduced me to like-minded individuals, becoming my new tribe.
Indifference
Of course, there were also the Indifferent friends. You know, the ones who couldn’t care less. It’s like discovering that the world doesn’t revolve around you—shocking, I know. At first, it was a tad disappointing when they didn’t jump up and down with excitement. But hey, guess what? Most people are busy dealing with their own stuff. So, I shrugged it off and decided to do whatever the heck I pleased.
Resentment
To be honest I don’t think I encountered anyone like this but I know it does happen. Stepping into the unknown can be intimidating, and career changes can amplify feelings of uncertainty. Friends who were comfortable with the version of you in your previous profession may struggle to comprehend or support your newfound aspirations. They may harbor their concerns or struggle to relate to your new career journey, inadvertently creating a divide between you.
You are changing too!
Oh, and by the way, don’t forget that you’re changing too! It’s not all about your friends. Shifting priorities, a lack of shared experiences, and lifestyle adjustments can all have an impact. You’ll find yourself rescheduling pub nights for morning coffee walks, and saying no to wild partying because, well, you’re too busy slaying your new career. Good friends will tease you lovingly and adapt to these changes, whilst calling you a “nanna” from time to time.
To navigate this transition successfully, practice acceptance and understanding. Embrace the fact that change is a natural part of life, and as you evolve, so do your relationships. Some friendships may naturally drift apart, but that doesn’t reflect your worth or their value. Additionally, seek out new connections within your new career space by attending events, joining professional organisations, or engaging in online communities. These opportunities can lead to meaningful connections with individuals who align with your current journey.
Remember, embarking on a career change is a personal decision aimed at personal growth and fulfilment. The right friends will support you throughout this process, and understanding their varied reactions will help you navigate the transition with resilience and grace.