| The biggest mistake that people make when they | | | | Going back to the example of the wannabe actor, |
| want to change careers is burning the bridges | | | | the smart way to for him to 'test the waters' |
| behind them too early. It is vitally important to | | | | would be to get involved in volunteer acting roles, |
| have a clear picture of the viability of your new | | | | especially those with potentially large audiences to |
| career path before abandoning a perfectly good, | | | | further refine his skills and his name out there. |
| albeit unsatisfying old one. | | | | Considering that he was still in university, it would |
| Recently I had the opportunity to speak to a final | | | | be easy for him to get in touch with his |
| year medical student, who had a passion for | | | | university's film club or drama school and see if he |
| acting. He had gritted his teeth for years while | | | | could get involved there. Another option would be |
| studying medicine, ignoring the fact that he was a | | | | to participate in local community events as well. |
| good actor because of doom-and-gloom | | | | In the same way, if you're considering switching |
| merchants in his life. Finally it got to the point | | | | careers, know that you have options. Try out |
| where he decided that he could not envisage a life | | | | your new field of passion on a small scale, either |
| without having at least tried to make it into films. | | | | as a part-time business or on a volunteer basis. |
| He saw it as an all or nothing proposition. | | | | See if it's as good a fit for you as you think |
| I believe that it is vitally important to know your | | | | before taking the plunge, and take as much time |
| passion and have a strong desire to pursue it. | | | | as you need to build up your skills in that area. |
| However, it doesn't have to be all or nothing. | | | | Finally, when you've gathered a good amount of |
| There is a smart way to transition yourself from | | | | experience, then you can move forward with |
| one career to the next without incurring too | | | | confidence knowing that you're backed by the |
| much of a downside either way. | | | | fullest preparation. |