There is a crisis in the UK and it has been brewing for a while now. A recent survey by Investors in People revealed half of the workforce is considering alternative employment. According to the survey, one in four workers in the UK is actively looking to get another job. These grim statistics highlight chronic job dissatisfaction in the UK workforce. Most people think finding another job is the answer to all their problems. But research has shown if you only give it time, the same problems will surface again. The only viable option then is to start with something you enjoy doing and turn it into a career. But how do you do it?
It Starts with the Correct Mindset
This is not a rehashed version of the law of attraction. We know you have probably read tonnes of books on that subject. But having the correct mindset will take you a long way. Making a career out of your passion is not easy. You need to prepare yourself for the most stressful period of your life. Getting a pay cheque at the end of the month, whether you give it your all, does not require much commitment. But knowing that the buck stops with you is an entirely different story. The success of your venture will rest on the decisions you make.
Get Your Head Out of the Clouds
We know this sounds a bit brutal, but if you are going to be successful, you need to be truthful with yourself. Is there a demand for your passion? Are people willing to pay you for the level of skill that you have? In many cases, the frustrations of working for an awful boss or in a dead-end job can conjure up irrational imaginations. You end up convincing yourself that something is a good idea when it is not. What you tell yourself inside your head is up to you, but remember that the bills need to be paid at the end of the month. We are not trying to dissuade you from following your passion, but have the facts first.
Is the Product or Service Good Enough?
If you can honestly answer this question, then you are on your way to a new career. Big companies always seek the opinion of their target customers before launching. If it is good enough for big business, then it is good enough for you. You need to create a focus group to test out your services first. It does not have to be anything fancy, even just a small group of family, neighbours, and close friends. The feedback you get from your group will improve your service or product.
Do You Need to Work for Yourself?
Starting a business is not for everyone. The stress involved can end up being worse than if you had stayed on your boring job. But then, who said you cannot follow your passion and work for someone else? At times you can be happily employed in your dream job under great management. If you are to find a job, you need to certify your skills. Showing up for an interview with just your passion to show is not a good idea. If you cannot get a certificate, build a portfolio of your work. You need to show that you are capable. That is the only way you can end up in the best career for you.
Finding the right place to put your skills to good use is essential. For example, those who are passionate about making sports predictions should find good betting sites not on gamstop, or propose themselves as a commentator on Youtube or Instagram. But you need to first show that you have the prerequisites for such posts.
Plan in Advance
Most times, starting a new career will mean a pay cut. You have probably been working in your current position for years. You know the ins and outs of this industry and have risen through the ranks. But setting out on your own requires sacrifice. You need to have a plan for how you will meet your expenses. Life does not stop just because you have followed your passion. The bills, mortgage, all still need to be paid. Failing to plan will make you resent starting a career you are passionate about. So do yourself a favour. Plan how you will balance your income as you follow your passion and give it your best shot.
