Unsure about what to do next in your career? Do you want to gain some clarity to achieve the career you’ve always dreamed of? Let’s unleash your second wind with these 4 steps to getting what you need from your career today.
Step 1: Compile a list of your interests.
Put pen to paper! When you’re seeking clarity, give yourself an idea of your options. For example, if you're passionate about cooking, what type of cuisine do you enjoy cooking? Have you taken any cooking classes? Are you business-savvy? Career paths start to emerge from the simple task of writing down a list.
Get comfortable with revealing uncomfortable thoughts too. You should look at the pros and cons of a job. For instance, if you want to be a chef, spending lots of time on your feet might work well for you if you were an athlete, but it might also be too much pressure on your aching muscles. Confront the uncomfortable truths and be honest! Where can you push yourself, and where must you be kinder?
Step 2: Connect your interests to possible careers.
Your experience as a student-athlete, pro, or elite, plus your unique background, set you apart in the job market. Consider how these experiences can translate to different industries and roles. For example, your discipline and determination as an athlete could make you a great candidate for positions where you must be persistent and goal-oriented, like sales.
A diverse skill set can make you more versatile and valuable in the job market. The capabilities you've developed will help you adapt to multiple industries. Some of which you might not even have considered yet! The trick is to explore how your skills can be transferred to different roles and how your existing network can help get you in front of the right people.
Step 3: Network, Network, Network.
Networking is just like training. The more you do it, the better you’ll get. Send that invite on LinkedIn. Meet up for coffee. You’ll be surprised at how often people want to share their insights and knowledge. Look for industry events and conferences too. You’ll find lots of businesses and professionals in one place – that’s a crash course in multiple industries and professions in one go!
Don’t forget that you have your network too. Reach out to former teammates or school alumni and build relationships with them. You’ll find people who’ve taken different career paths and have probably felt just like you. That’s why I run group workshops for athletes connected by teams, nations, or communities; there’s strength (and insight!) in groups.
Step 4: Get out the books!
Whether cracking open a book or starting a course, learning new skills can help you stay competitive. You have adapted and learned new approaches throughout your athletic career, so consider taking short courses to expand your knowledge and build expertise. Don’t just choose the quick hits or get-rich-scheme courses. Contact me, and we’ll build on your strengths to find the best options.
Looking for career clarity? Join my 7-week career transition course to make your passion a career reality!
As a former professional footballer who transitioned into global banking and is now a lifestyle & career coach, I have the right tools to build your dream career. From visualisation to hands-on career design, I’ll set you up for long-term fun, energy, and success.
Need help? Are you looking for advice on a new career, direction, or path? Let's chat. Drop me an email at letschat@2ndwind.io