I’ve noticed a trend in the conversations I’ve had of late with people seeking to make a career change.

The career changers have jobs, but they are seeking something else. Recent events have only exacerbated their feelings and they aren’t content to compromise. It’s a common feeling and actually one that more and more young workers are expressing at a much earlier time in their working lives.

What is everyone looking for?

• Meaningful work.
• Work that is aligned with their ethical beliefs.
• A place where you are valued.
• A place where you can make a difference.
• An avenue where you can express yourself creatively.
• A position where you have more autonomy and flexibility.
• A desire to work to live and not live to work.

For each person, it is slightly different but if you consider some of the shifts in society and the trends that have gained momentum; it is understandable that these are the feelings that are being expressed.

Some of the grassroots movements and trends that many are concerned about are the same things that are causing people to consequently rethink their working lives.

What are the themes, movements and issues that concern an increasing number of people?

• Green/environmental solutions, Sustainability and carbon footprints
• Waste, recycling and upcycling
• Slow food vs Fast Food
• Buy local
• Organic food
• Farm to fork
• Pesticides and Insecticides in farming
• Non-toxic personal care and cleaning products
• Ethical Fashion Vs Fast Fashion
• Natural fibres in clothing
• Global warming, climate change and alternatives to fossil fuels
• Ethical Banking
• Prioritising mental health as much as physical health
• Tree change, sea change and migration from the cities

Basically, if you have been seriously reassessing your working life in relation to your values and the impact of your contribution, you are not alone. There is increasing recognition that your choices can make a huge difference to the environment, to society and to the planet’s future.

Most importantly, seeking work that brings you meaning because you desire an alignment with your goals, values or expression of your personality, will be the best investment for your well-being.

In considering a career change, thinking about the things you value and what brings you meaning is the first place to start. Do you need help to make this happen? Contact Maria Cordi, Career Coach at CIRCLE, through the office on 1300 923 000 and she can discuss your needs with you.

Career Coach

Maria holds a Bachelor of Science, with a Psychology major and a Master of Applied Science (Psychology of Coaching) from the University of Sydney. She has a background in Human Resources and Career Planning with Westpac, worked as a Training & Development Consultant with Psychological Assessments Australia, and spent some years working with CIRCLE Recruitment & HR.

Important Note: These articles have been prepared for general circulation and are circulated for general informational purposes only; these articles should not be regarded as business or investment advice. The articles represent the views of the writers and are subject to change without notice. Additionally, while every care has been taken in the preparation of the articles no representation or warranty as to accuracy or completeness of any statement is given. An individual or organisation should, before any business or investment decision is made, consider the appropriateness of the information in this document, and seek professional advice, having regard to objectives, situation and needs. This document is solely for the use of the party to whom it is provided.