So, you’re over 30, a professional woman, and you’re feeling stuck in a career that just doesn’t fit anymore. I get it-you’re dreaming of making a change, finding work that actually lights you up, and maybe even finally being your true self. And the logical part of you is thinking: “I should go back to school. That’ll solve it, right?”
Before you dive headfirst into applications, let me offer a perspective that could save you time, money, and unnecessary stress.
My Story: From Feeling Stuck to Finding My Path
I’ve been exactly where you are. I spent years job-hopping in the oil and gas industry, hoping each new role would finally make me happy. Spoiler alert: it didn’t. I even considered going back to school to become a dietician because it felt like the practical thing to do (hello, biochemistry degree). I started researching, applying, and making plans to quit my job and uproot my life.
But deep down, I knew something was off. After some serious soul-searching, I realized school wasn’t the answer-I just didn’t know what I truly wanted.
Why Going Back to School Isn’t the Answer for Most Women
If you’re considering school as your next move, I want you to pause and think about these three key reasons why it might not be the solution you’re looking for.
Reason #1: You Might Not Know What You Really Want
It’s easy to think school is the magic ticket to a new career, but without clarity about what you truly want, you might end up in the same stuck place-just with more debt. Trust me, I’ve been there.
Reason #2: It’s a Huge Investment with No Guarantee
Between tuition, books, and the time you’ll spend studying, school is a big commitment. And here’s the kicker: there’s no guarantee you’ll land a job in your new field. For example, when I looked into becoming a dietician, I realized that even after getting the degree, I’d need to land a competitive internship just to get licensed. Yikes.
Reason #3: You Already Have the Skills You Need
Chances are, you’ve gained valuable, transferable skills in your current career. You don’t always need another degree to pivot-what you really need is to recognize your strengths and learn how to leverage them in a new way.
Do This Instead: Start with Clarity
Before you invest years of your life in school, take a step back and get crystal clear on what you actually want. Here are some questions to help you get started:
- What do people naturally come to you for advice about?
- What activities make you lose track of time?
- What strengths do you take for granted because they come so easily to you?
Talk to people who know you well-friends, family, or even a coach-to help you uncover your hidden strengths and passions. These insights can point you toward a career that feels like it was made for you.
Here’s What Worked for Me
After years of soul-searching, I found a career that fits me like a glove-and it didn’t require another degree. By focusing on my natural gifts and passions, I was able to create a path that feels aligned with who I am. Now, as a certified change practitioner, I help women like you do the same.
Before You Take the Leap Back to School
If you’re thinking about school, ask yourself:
- Am I doing this because I’m truly passionate about this career path?
- Or am I using school as an escape because I don’t know what else to do?
There’s no shame in pressing pause to figure things out. In fact, it’s the smartest move you can make. Clarity will save you time, money, and heartache in the long run.
What’s Next? Let’s Figure It Out Together
Feeling stuck and unsure of what’s next? You don’t have to figure it out alone. This is what I do-I help professional women over 30 like you find clarity and confidence in their career transitions.
Click here to book a call here https://rozellamae.com/call and let’s talk about what’s possible for you.
You’ve Got This:!
Making a career change is no small thing, but you’re closer than you think. Take it from someone who’s been through the doubt, the frustration, and the sleepless nights-you’re not alone, and there is a path forward.
Take your time, trust the process, and remember: the best decisions come from your heart, not from external pressures. You’ve got this.
Rozella is a career coach for women over 30 who feel stuck and drained in their careers to figure out what they truly want, tap into their strengths, and build a career they actually love so they can wake up feeling energized, confident, and at peace with the direction of their life. With over 14 years of experience in corporate and armed with PMP, PROSCI, and CSM certifications, she guides you step by step towards finding a meaningful career that feels right for you!
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