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

Summary

The speaker shares their diverse career journey, from English teacher to attorney, video game creator, and finally, a toilet paper salesman. They emphasize the importance of finding the intersection of passion and skill, and offer advice for those considering a career change. Tips include networking, financial preparation, and maintaining professional relationships. The speaker encourages embracing new opportunities and leveraging transferable skills from past experiences.

Takeaways

• 🌟 Life is about finding the intersection of passion and proficiency.
• 💼 Professional life is a continuous learning journey; lack of interest in learning can signal a need for change.
• 🔍 Career changes often stem from an inner urge, not just external factors like job dissatisfaction.
• 🚫 Avoid making career decisions based on short-term pain or conflicts with colleagues.
• 🤝 Networking is crucial; it provides valuable advice and support during career transitions.
• 💰 Ensure financial stability before making a career change to ease the transition.
• 🛠️ Side hustles offer a low-risk way to explore a new industry or role.
• 🌉 Do not burn bridges as you transition to a new career; maintain professional relationships.
• 🔄 Transferable skills from previous careers can be valuable assets in new roles.
• 💪 Embrace the nervousness of starting a new job; your new team is invested in your success.

Q & A

What was the speaker's career path before becoming a toilet paper salesman?

Before becoming a toilet paper salesman, the speaker was an English teacher, then went to law school and became an attorney at a big law firm in New York City, and also had a stint as a video game creator.

What is the main message the speaker wants to convey about career changes?

The main message is that life is about finding the intersection of what you really love and what you're really good at, and that making a career change requires careful consideration and preparation.

Why did the speaker leave his job as an attorney?

The speaker left his job as an attorney because he realized he was not truly passionate about it, despite being good at it, and understood that it takes a significant amount of time to excel at something.

What are the three things one should consider before making a career change according to the speaker?

One should consider whether they are still interested in learning, if their career change is gut-driven, and if they are willing to endure short-term pain that often comes with starting over in a new field.

Why is networking important when making a career change?

Networking is important because it helps in building a support system with mentors and advisors who can provide valuable advice and guidance during the transition to a new career.

What financial advice does the speaker give for someone planning a career change?

The speaker advises to shore up one's finances by ensuring they have enough savings to cover at least six to 12 months of personal expenses to make the transition less painful.

What is a 'side hustle' and how can it help someone considering a career change?

A 'side hustle' is an additional job or business venture taken on alongside one's primary employment. It can help someone test the waters of a new industry or role without fully committing, allowing them to explore their interests and skills in a new field.

Why should one avoid burning bridges when changing careers?

One should avoid burning bridges because the world is interconnected, especially with online platforms, and it's likely that you will encounter the same people again in the future.

How can skills and experiences from previous careers be valuable in a new career?

Skills and experiences from previous careers, such as communication, teamwork, and dealing with difficult people, are often universally applicable and can be valuable assets in a new career.

What reassurance does the speaker offer to those who are nervous about starting a new job?

The speaker reassures that everyone in the new team is rooting for the newcomer's success because individual success contributes to the team's success.