It’s been just a few weeks since many of us returned to work after the winter break. Are you already fed up of the daily grind? It might just be time for a career change.

January is a time when many people pause to assess their career and how it impacts their overall lifestyle and happiness. A recent survey from Investors in People shows that employees are most likely to consider a career change during this month, with one in five searching for new opportunities.

Whether a break from work has you dreading going back into the office, or a new year’s resolution has made you realise your career no longer fits your desired lifestyle, a new year can grant you a new start. 

Here are some signs that you might be ready for a career change…

You feel easily burnt out 

Do you struggle to get out of bed in the mornings, worrying about the pile of work that awaits you at the office? Often, feeling exhausted from the working week isn’t just due to tiredness – it can be a sign of emotional fatigue caused by unhappiness at work. 

If you’re constantly feeling burnt out, you might want to consider a different career path.  

Many Chippendale School students have already experienced professional success and are now taking steps to pursue a fulfilling, rather than draining career.

You have no time for creativity 

A lot of us get our energy from pursuing creative activities, but in some professions, there is simply no room for individuality. For some, this lack of creative outlet can really start to take its toll. 

If you can’t wait for the weekend to work on your latest design project, perhaps you would enjoy a career where you get to explore your creativity practically every day. 

You have a poor work/life balance 

Feel like the demands of the job are getting in the way of the important things in life? You may be able to address these challenges within your current role, but a prolonged work/life imbalance could be a sign you’re in the wrong job.

You can’t stop whinging 

“My boss is the worst… Carol took credit for my idea again… No one values how much effort I put in!” We’re all moan-prone from time to time, but if you find yourself constantly complaining about your job, then be open to the possibility that it’s just not right for you. 

You’re not giving your best 

We all have off days, and nobody gives 100% all of the time, but if you feel that most days you’re not trying your best, then you might just be ready to move on. 

Nobody likes to be apathetic – it’s not a pleasant feeling. Much better to pursue a career where you can be proud of your hard work. 

You clicked on this blog

If you’re turning to the internet to tell you whether it’s time for a career change, then you probably already know the answer!

What should you do next? 

It’s all very well deciding to change careers, but what do you do after you’ve made this big decision? It would be a shame to go from one unfulfilling role to another.  

Consider what you are actually passionate about and how you can turn this into a viable career option. 

One of our former students, Mike Whittall, left a 25-year accountancy career to focus on his passion for woodworking, and now runs his own furniture business in rural Aberdeenshire. Find out how Mike changed careers at age 50. 

Woodworking careers – what are the benefits?

Woodworking careers offer a fascinating alternative to office work, keeping you motivated and inspired every day. 

Woodworking careers are varied and interesting, incorporating creative design and problem-solving. Of course, no role is without its challenges, but being challenged in a role you enjoy can keep you engaged with your work and ensure your days are never boring! The sense of achievement for each finished part helps to keep your motivation high through long projects.  

How to start a woodworking career 

Our Professional Course is the ideal route for woodworkers of any age to start a new career as a furniture maker, restorer or designer. The intensive 9-month course gives you skills in all aspects of furniture making and restoration. The whole course is career-focused, helping to prepare you for running a woodworking business by teaching business management and marketing skills. 

Considering pursuing a furniture making career? Discover more about our Professional Course, download a prospectus, or get in touch with a helpful member of our team.