Career Transitioning

In a rapidly changing world where inflation is having its toll and many professions are becoming archaic; no thanks to Artificial Intelligence,  change is currently fast and furious.

One principle that has stayed with us in the career space from previous time is evolution. We have been forcibly drawn into becoming better at our chosen professions and careers; but in recent times, we have heard more on career transitioning, job shift, alternate career, etc.

Many are quitting their previous jobs to take on new jobs with promising renumeration, better flexibility and comfortability, quicker career progression and which are totally different from their previous jobs.

So, how can a Christian professional navigate through Career Transitioning?

It is first worthy of note that our careers as believers are important part of fulfilling God's purpose here on earth. As sojourners, we should align our careers with His divine plan, and purpose. He, therefore,  initiates the shifting or transitioning as it aligns with His purpose for our lives.

Let’s explore this scripture in Matthew 4:18-20:

18 As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. 19 “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.” 20 At once they left their nets and followed him.

Peter and Andrew were on the sea of their career and not in small waters. However, the transition call came from Jesus in the direction of His purpose for their lives. Gladly, their wise joint response was not influenced by contemporary trends or societal norms. They didn't consider the trend or “stability”, Instead, they followed divine guidance in their career transition.

So, the primary step in Career Transitioning for you as a Christian Professional is to be led by the Spirit of God. Romans 8:14 highlights this essential aspect. It is of great importance that Christian professionals subscribe to divine guidance. This also goes beyond just telling God that you want to make that career change but to also know exactly what He would have you do in your desired new career.

Once this spiritual guidance is clear, it's time to swing into strategic action, and that's where your planning becomes crucial. A well-structured plan plays a pivotal role in ensuring a smooth transition. Planning anticipates and addresses key questions in advance; providing a strong foundation for your career shift. As James Clear, the author of Atomic Habits, aptly puts it, "We do not rise to the level of our goals; we fall to the level of our systems."

During your planning process, you will also discover the need for soul searching, identifying your gifts/talents, getting the right resources and relationships to navigate this uncharted professional terrain. This phase comes with asking a lot of questions, exploring available career opportunities and how they suit your personality in accordance to divine direction. Extensive research is also essential, providing deeper insights into your new career path.

Certainly, in your research process you may discover that new skillset is required for this new professional path. So, acquiring the necessary skills for your new path is important. This may involve virtual or in-person learning and seeking out mentors to guide you through the process. It's time to upskill. Get necessary certifications, explore possibilities to learn and grow in this career path.

Most importantly, highlight your transferrable skillset! It’s amazing you can transfer some high-class skill set from your previous career! It’s time to leverage on this as you make this bold move!

You can also consider consulting a career coach to fine-tune your ideas properly as you embark on this journey.

Finally, having a good exit plan from your previous job before resignation is paramount. Many people get tired of their jobs and resign out of frustration, it is advisable as Christian professionals to be visionary. The scriptures says we should “Write the vision and make it plain upon tablets, that he may run that readeth it”. Exiting your previous profession gracefully instead of abruptly, not only preserves your career reputation but also ensures financial stability as you navigate your new niche.

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