Dear Nancy:
Since suffering an injury that has caused me agonizing, chronic pain, all that I have worked for in my 15-year career is slipping through my fingers. Management at my former job discredited the struggle I faced, and I am afraid that other jobs will also fail to acknowledge my needs. I could go back to school, but starting completely over from scratch at my age is overwhelming, and the threat of student loan debt is too much to bear. I'm very worried because all I see are entry level jobs that will not pay my bills. I feel lost, and I'm not even sure what my next move should be. How do I find a new career now that my injury has changed my life forever?
Sincerely, Lost.
Dear Lost:
As someone who has also made difficult career changes due to a disability, I know how unsettling it can be to start over when your world is turned upside down. However, one spark of inspiration is often all it takes to begin a new chapter of your life. Consider getting motivated by picking up a book you connect with, like a self-help guide or memoir by a person you admire. Hold that book tight with both hands, and let the words anchor you. When you feel defeated, sometimes an encouraging story reminds you not all is lost, especially when you have so much inner potential. Plenty of businesses out there need someone with your talents. Try tapping into what makes you stand out from the crowd. Maybe you’re a team player who is great at leading meetings. Perhaps you’re a critical thinker who can crack the code on the most challenging of problems. If you still struggle to recognize your special skills, a career test can help you hone in on your strengths. When you peel back the layers of yourself with all of your natural abilities, you will see you are a great candidate for many different positions. Now that you have identified what you have to offer, find job descriptions that seem like a good fit and pique your interest. Check out people on LinkedIn with similar work experience, and notice what extra certifications they have completed that you may want to pursue. You might also go to networking events in your area. Sometimes talking with other professionals is helpful after you've been stuck in front of your computer filling out applications all day. Perhaps you'll meet someone with a job title you’ve never heard of before, and they can give you insight into an inspiring new occupation. As you take these action steps toward your new career, remember you already have everything inside you to be successful. Trust yourself and take the leap: An amazing new career is waiting for you just on the horizon.
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