Chances are, at some point in your life, you will need to make a career shift. Whether you’re transitioning by choice or external circumstances, this period of change can feel overwhelming. However, it’s also a great time to reassess your purpose, align your work with your passions and create a more meaningful professional life.

During this time, you may want to consider not just what you will do next, but how you will approach this transition with clarity, confidence and care for yourself. A career shift isn’t just about finding another job; it’s about realigning with what truly matters to you and creating a professional life that reflects your values, passions and strengths.

Here are a few suggestions on how to navigate this transition in a healthy and productive way:

Start with self-reflection. Before rushing into applying for random jobs online, take a step back and assess what you truly want. Ask yourself:

Who brings out the best in me?
Where do I feel called to make a difference?
What do I want my life and my work to look like in this next chapter?
What work energizes me so much that I lose track of time?
Where am I providing the most value?
When do I feel my best?
Why am I experiencing this change and what do I want out of it?
How am I defining success in this new chapter?

The answers to these questions will help guide your job search with intention, rather than urgency. Instead of settling for any job, you’ll be searching for a role that aligns with your purpose and values.

Focus on career exploration. Exploring new career paths can feel overwhelming if approached without structure. Focus is key. Define what industries or roles interest you, research emerging opportunities and be strategic in your search. It is ok to explore and change your mind. During this time, use career coaches, mentors and sponsors who can provide guidance, insights, encouragement and connections to help you move forward.

Engage with intention. One of the best ways to explore new opportunities is by getting involved in your community. Volunteering allows you to gain experience and contribute to meaningful causes while assessing if a certain field is right for you. Networking, on the other hand, isn’t just about handing out business cards; it’s about forming genuine connections. Attend local meetings and events, engage in industry discussions online and reach out to people doing work that interests you. Your next opportunity is more likely to come from a conversation than a job board.

Leverage technology and branding tools. Today’s job market is more competitive and digital than ever. Take advantage of tools that can streamline your transition:

AI-powered tools to refine resumes, draft cover letters and practice interview responses
Online job boards like LinkedIn, Indeed, remote job boards and niche industry platforms to find openings and hiring trends
Personal branding strategies to position yourself effectively
Ensure your resume and LinkedIn profile tell a compelling story of your skills and aspirations.
Develop a clear and engaging elevator pitch. Have a 30-second introduction that captures who you are, what you’ve done and what you’re looking to do next. The ability to confidently articulate your value is key.

Create a marketing plan for yourself. Think of your career transition as a personal brand relaunch. Map out your goals, identify your transferable skills and craft a strategic approach to showcase your expertise. Consider how your past experiences make you uniquely suited for your next role, even if it’s in a new field.

Prioritize true self-care. Career transitions can be stressful, but self-care goes beyond a workout, facial or good glass of wine. Real self-care means:

Understanding your value and refusing to settle for less than you deserve
Giving yourself the space and grace to explore without fear of failure
Finding balance by maintaining hobbies, social connections and activities that feed your heart and soul

Embrace the journey. A career transition is more than a job search. It’s an opportunity to reinvent yourself, align your work and life with your purpose, and step into a more fulfilling future. By leading with intention, focus and self-care, you’ll navigate this change with confidence and clarity.

Christine Carter is a career consultant with LHH, a global leader in career transition services, and a private practice consultant specializing in career transitions. She is the author of Restart Strong, a guide for those navigating career change and can be reached at [email protected].