Are you currently stuck in a job that you used to love, but no longer feel the passion for anymore
It’s something that many people start to feel as they get older, but not everyone takes the leap of faith to make a change.
I was an airline captain at the top of my game. It had taken me years of training and learning to get to where I was, but I quickly realized that I needed something more from my life.
So, I turned to acting.
It’s an industry that’s the complete opposite of being a pilot, but it was a challenge that I craved. I took the first step and looking back from where I am now, I’m so proud of myself for letting my heart guide my head.
Here’s how you can transition into a new industry after a career change.
You don’t have to do it all at once
Once you decide to pursue a new career, you don’t have to quit your job and start from scratch.
I started taking acting lessons in the evening after I had finished my day’s work. While I was still working, I was laying the foundations for my new acting career, preparing myself for the day when I could phase out flying completely.
Learn as much as you can
When you’re starting a new career later in life, it can be scary not having the knowledge and experience to be the best straight away – but everyone’s got to start from somewhere.
Embrace your new industry, try to learn as much as you can and don’t worry about the small mistakes that you make along the way – everything’s a learning experience.
Prepare for how people will react
I remember when I started telling my friends and family that I was giving up my life as a pilot to become an actor.
Everyone thought I was crazy.
Making such a big change will often lead to people misunderstanding you, or even ridiculing you for your choice.
The most important thing is that it’s your choice, no one else’s. Follow your passion and do what feels right to you, everything else will fall into place.
Keep your eyes peeled for new opportunities
When I was getting into acting, I wanted to learn everything I could as quickly as possible.
That’s how I fell into creating my own content and hosting my podcast. I saw the opportunity to do something new and exciting while developing my acting skills.
This may not apply to every industry you work in but seeking new opportunities to improve your skills will help you progress monumentally.
Thanks for reading
Herb Jackson Jr