Are you feeling the strain of burnout and longing for a career change that better supports your well-being? In this insightful Q&A, a career coach and a director general share their personal experiences and expert advice on successfully transitioning to roles that prevent burnout. Discover why finding champions who believe in you is crucial and how assessing what matters is critical. This article offers three valuable insights to guide anyone considering a similar change.

  • Find Champions Who Believe in You
  • Listen to Your Instincts
  • Assess What Truly Matters to You

Find Champions Who Believe in You

I was in my dream role until it wasn’t. The culture ended up being a mismatch for my personality and preferences, along with toxic leaders, that led to a season of burnout and frustration. I never thought I would be able to leave because I didn’t think I had the experience necessary for the next step. Turns out that I did have the experience, and my burnout combined with the toxic leaders created a high level of impostor syndrome.

My advice to those in a place of burnout looking for a change is to make sure you have a great network of champions who can refer you to positions. My next position was a referral, and while I still had to interview and prove myself to multiple levels in the organization, the referral gave me the confidence I needed to pursue the opportunity. My experiences and skills are what got me the new job.

Believe in yourself and find champions who believe in you, especially in the tough times.

Julia ToothacreJulia Toothacre
Career Coach, Ride The Tide Collective

Listen to Your Instincts

While still in law school, I realized that the traditional path many of my peers were heading to wasn’t the best fit for my well-being. I decided to shift my focus to a role that offered more balance and suited me better. I took on a position at a non-profit legal-aid organization, which provided a different kind of experience and a sense of fulfillment that I wasn’t getting from more conventional legal roles.

This transition helped me avoid burnout and find a healthier work-life balance. My advice to others considering a similar change is to listen to your instincts and prioritize your mental health. Seek opportunities that align with your passions and values, even if they seem unconventional. Don’t fear to step off the beaten path—you might find a more rewarding and sustainable career.

C.L. Mike SchmidtC.L. Mike Schmidt
Personal Injury Lawyer, Schmidt & Clark

Assess What Truly Matters to You

Transitioning to a new role can be daunting, but it can also lead to significant improvements in well-being. I faced this challenge when I realized my previous position drained my energy and creativity. I shifted my focus toward leadership roles emphasizing mentorship and personal development, which better aligned with my passion for helping others grow.

This change reignited my enthusiasm for work and enhanced my overall well-being. By surrounding myself with a supportive team and fostering an environment of collaboration, I reduced stress and increased job satisfaction.

The best advice I can give to others considering a similar change is first to assess what truly matters to you. Identify your values, and interests, and what makes you feel fulfilled.

Take the time to explore roles that resonate with your passions. Feel free to network and seek guidance from mentors. Change takes time, but prioritizing your well-being is essential for long-term success.

Embrace the journey and trust that the right opportunities will lead you to a fulfilling career that supports your mental health and prevents burnout.

Fawad langahFawad langah
Director General, Best Diplomats