Changing Careers In Your 20s

  |   Patricia Tiernan
Group of 20 year olds jumping for joy

Let’s talk about the struggle of being in your 20s and hating your job. Ever feel like you’re stuck watching everyone else live their best lives while you’re just trying to figure things out? It’s like scrolling through Instagram and seeing people who seem to have it all sorted – they’re climbing that elusive career ladder at lightning speed, starting cool businesses, or living that hipster lifestyle that’s beyond cool.

You know the ones I’m talking about – they’ve got the fancy job titles, the Instagram-worthy adventures, and the effortlessly cool vibe. Meanwhile, you’re over here just trying to make it through the week without having a breakdown at your desk job.

It’s tough, isn’t it? Feeling like you’re lagging behind while everyone else is zooming ahead. You can’t help but wonder if you’ll ever catch up or if you’re doomed to be stuck in the same old routine forever.

But here’s the thing – life isn’t a competition, and everyone’s journey is different. Just because someone else seems to have it all together doesn’t mean they don’t have their own struggles and insecurities. And just because you’re not living that picture-perfect life doesn’t mean you’re failing.

If you’re feeling lost or unhappy in your job, you’re not alone. It’s tough out there, and sometimes it feels like we’re stuck in a maze while others are zooming ahead.

Let’s explore some of the struggles faced in your 20’s and why it’s okay to feel the way you do.

  • The Pressure to Conform: First off, let’s address the elephant in the room: the pressure to conform. Society tells us we need to have our lives figured out by now, but that’s just not realistic. Whether it’s choosing a course in college because everyone else is doing it or feeling like we have to settle for a job that doesn’t fulfil us, it’s easy to feel trapped in someone else’s expectations.
  • Dealing with Disappointment: Okay, let’s be real – finding yourself in a job you hate is soul-crushing. You spent years studying, maybe even racked up some debt, only to end up feeling miserable. It’s okay to feel disappointed, frustrated, or even angry about it. You’re allowed to acknowledge that this isn’t where you want to be.
  • Fear of Making the Wrong Choice: Here’s the kicker: the fear of making the wrong choice. You’re afraid to take a leap and change things up because what if it’s the wrong move? What if you end up even more lost than before? It’s a scary thought, and it’s totally understandable to feel paralysed by it.
  • Struggling to Make Ends Meet: Let’s talk money – or rather, the lack thereof. Balancing bills, rent, and other expenses on top of a job that doesn’t allow you enough to save is a recipe for stress. It’s hard to focus on anything else when you’re constantly worried about making ends meet.
  • Navigating the Golden Handcuffs: Or maybe your challenge is balancing the allure of financial stability with the toll of a soul-destroying job.
  • The Ripple Effect: Your job – it’s more than just a way to pay the bills. It affects every aspect of your life, from your relationships to your lifestyle choices. Ever thought about how your job affects your dating life? Dreaming of travelling the world, getting married, starting a family or buying a house? Your job plays a big role in whether or not these lifestyle choices are within reach.

So, if you’re feeling unhappy or lost in your 20s, know that you’re not alone. It’s okay to feel the way you do, and it’s okay to acknowledge that things aren’t working out as planned. Take a deep breath, and remember that it’s never too late to make a change. Whether it’s exploring new career paths, seeking support from friends and family, or simply giving yourself permission to take a break and figure things out, know that there’s always a way forward.

Whether you’re feeling lost in your job, struggling with the fear of making a change, or just need some support in figuring things out, career coaching can provide the guidance and encouragement you need to take that next step forward. Take the leap and join the Early Career Change Coaching programme, to help you navigate through these challenges and find a fulfilling career.