"How Do You Know When It’s Time for a Career Change?"

"How do you know when it’s time for a career change?"

The expert: Jaclynn (Jax) Brennan is a creative executive and expert on the connection between business and branding with over 12 years of experience. She is also the CEO and co-founder of Fyli, a female mastermind membership community focused on educational masterclasses, accountability, peer-to-peer mentorship, leadership advancement and funding opportunities for early stage female founders. Here's her advice.

When you are constantly thinking about your side hustle or keep dreaming of new opportunities, it is time to move on. When you wake up everyday feeling unfulfilled and dreading work, it’s time to change. When you don’t feel inspired or challenged, and don't get to put your natural abilities or gifts to work, it's time for a change. Most importantly, if you do not feel seen, heard or understood, it is absolutely time for a change. 

Leaving a job or switching careers can certainly be easier said than done, so I ALWAYS suggest building yourself a “net” and preparing for your exit. I am giving the advice I wish I had myself a decade ago when I made a major career pivot. I was feeling completely flat in my current role, feeling like my ideas were not being supported or heard, and most importantly, not feeling inspired or challenged. I wanted to be creating impact and doing something that aligned with my own core values. 

Building a net can look different for everyone but these are some key things to consider:

• A few months of rent and expenses stashed away 
• A community of support as you make the transition to check in and hold you accountable
• An exit plan for your current role, including finding back up or extra support for your employer or team so they are not left in the dust
• A strategic timeline and short term goals that you can work towards in your change

Good luck with this exciting new chapter!