Sometimes change in various aspects of our lives can be out of our control “Change is the only constant” according to the Ancient Greek philosopher Heraclitus. But occasionally you know you need to make a change in your life, such as moving into a new job or career.
Considering a career change is one thing, but actually going through that change can sometimes involve a bit of a roller coaster ride of emotions.
The Kubler-Ross Change Curve describes this journey in more detail using 8 steps, from the initial acceptance of the decision to make a change through to the doubt and fear which may follow and then the certainty and confidence as you master your new role.
The St James’s Place Financial Adviser Academy are well placed to support their candidates who will be going through this change curve cycle as they train and move into adviser roles.
They have written an article about the Kubler-Ross Change Curve process in their recent article ‘How to manage a career change in 8 steps | St. James’s Place’.
The change curve itself is not something you necessarily need to be a ‘passenger’ of, being armed with the knowledge about it means it’s something you can potentially have more control over, as you go through the process. Read on below to view the article in full:
Change. It can be daunting, especially when it comes to your career. But as we all know, the only constant in life is change. It’s how we deal with it that truly makes a difference.
When considering a career change, it’s normal to feel a range of emotions. Whether you’re excited about the possibilities or nervous about the unknown, understanding how to navigate these feelings can help you move forward. Here’s a framework for dealing with change to support you in your career decision-making.
In the 1960s, Elizabeth Kubler-Ross developed the Change Curve to explain the stages people go through when grieving the loss of a loved one. Over time, this model has been adapted to explain how we process any significant change, including in our professional lives.
When contemplating a career transition, you are likely to experience a range of emotions that fit into a similar pattern. These emotions can be mapped out on the Change Curve, helping you understand where you are in your journey and how to keep moving forward. The key stages are:
Let’s explore how these emotions relate to a career change, and how recognising each stage can help you progress through your transition.
This is where the journey often begins. You might feel restless, dissatisfied, or like you’ve reached a plateau in your current role. Perhaps you can’t quite pinpoint what’s wrong, or maybe you’re aware that you’ve outgrown your current position. At this stage, acknowledging your unhappiness is key – it’s the first step towards making a change.
Action: Reflect on your current role and write down the specific factors that make you unhappy or unfulfilled. Are there tasks or environments that drain your energy? Creating this list will give you clarity on what needs to change.
Once you’ve accepted that something isn’t right, the decision to make a change follows. You might be feeling a mixture of excitement and apprehension as you contemplate your next move. You know a change is on the horizon, and you’re ready to take action, even if the path isn’t fully clear yet.
Action: Define the change you want to make. Start by identifying possible new roles, industries, or career paths. Research them thoroughly and list the skills or qualifications required. Set a realistic deadline for when you will make your first move.
With a decision made, uncertainty often follows. Whether you’ve chosen a completely new field, like becoming a financial adviser, or simply a different role within your industry, questions arise. What will this new job involve? Will it suit me? This stage can be filled with both curiosity and doubt as you try to navigate your new direction.
Action: Start to network or shadow professionals in your chosen field. Speak to people who have already made similar career changes to get real-life insights. This will help reduce uncertainty and give you a clearer picture of what to expect.
Doubt is a natural part of any big decision. Even if you’ve done your research and know the change could be a good one, you may still question whether it’s the right move. Perhaps you worry about wasting the skills you’ve already built or wonder if it’s too late to make a shift. At this stage, it’s important to remind yourself of your reasons for wanting change and trust that your skills are transferable.
Action: List your transferable skills and accomplishments from your current career. This will help you realise the strengths you bring to a new role. Also, take small steps, like attending workshops or short courses, to boost your confidence in the new direction.
Fear can be paralysing, especially when stepping into the unknown. You may think you’re too old or too young, or that you lack the necessary experience. But remember, self-doubt is common when making a career change, and it doesn’t mean you’re making the wrong decision. Fear often signifies you’re pushing yourself out of your comfort zone – a necessary part of growth.
Action: Challenge your negative thoughts by writing down your fears and questioning their validity. What evidence do you have to support these fears? Then create a plan to address any genuine gaps – whether it’s acquiring new skills or building your network.
Once you’ve decided to move forward despite the fear, you begin to experiment with your new path. This might involve training, networking, or even starting in a junior role to gain experience. It’s challenging, but slowly, you begin to see progress. The hard work and risk start to pay off, and you realise you have the skills and determination to succeed.
Action: Take practical steps towards your new career. Enrol in relevant courses, start applying for positions, or volunteer in a role related to your new field. Set small, measurable goals to track your progress and celebrate each milestone you achieve.
At this stage, your career change has taken shape, and you feel confident about the future. The hard work, perseverance, and willingness to embrace change have paid off, and you’re on a path of continuous growth. You’ve navigated the Change Curve and emerged stronger and more self-assured.
Action: Build on your momentum by setting new goals for your career. Identify areas where you can continue to grow, whether through further education, leadership roles, or skill development. Stay connected to your network and keep seeking opportunities for professional growth.
Change, especially in your career, can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. Ask yourself:
As John Maxwell famously said, “Change is inevitable. Growth is optional.” Understanding the emotions that come with it and recognising where you are on the Change Curve can help you manage the process more effectively.
Find out more about the opportunities with St. James’s Place Financial Adviser Academy, check out their Featured Company Profile page.
You can also connect with SJP by editing your profile and updating your connect with featured companies preferences to start a conversation.
You can find out more on how to apply to join the St. James’s Place Financial Adviser Academy and get in touch to find out more information about the programme.
Read the following article from SJP, to find out more information on why you should become a financial adviser:
