Today’s question is one we’re often asked and is answered by: Ginny Kravitz, Deputy Editor.
Question:
How long does it usually take for someone to transition to a new career?
Answer:
Once you have identified the new direction in which you’d like to take your career, the transition may take anywhere from six months to a few years, depending on your specific situation and how big of a change you’re making. The typical experience is probably in the 6-24 month range. If you’re the type of person who takes a long-term view and is, for example, planning to retire from one career and begin another, then you might create a 3-5 year plan. More often, though, once you’ve identified your new direction, momentum will build on its own and change may very well happen sooner than expected. So, the answer is that it’s shorter for some and longer for others. Some people take more gradual steps and others take big leaps. Often, an interim move may be the bridge. One thing is for certain: Once you commit to a new direction, create a plan, and start taking consistent action, change happens.