A Career Change Story: From Finance to Massage Therapy
I am constantly amazed by the bravery of my clients. When I begin working with someone new, I never know whether they’ll make a small pivot or a major leap in their career. Both are equally powerful. Sometimes, a small shift is all it takes to create a huge difference in someone’s life. Other times, I watch clients take bold steps into the unknown to pursue careers that align more deeply with who they are.
Recently, I worked with a client who had spent about 10 years in finance. It wasn’t a career he had ever truly loved. It was something he’d fallen into after college for practical reasons.
After being impacted by a layoff, he found himself at a crossroads. For the first time in years, he had the space to ask: Is this really the path I want to keep following?
Starting with Reflection
When we began working together, he was eager to explore every possibility. He didn’t want to settle for another job that simply paid the bills. He wanted work he could feel excited about.
Of course, exploring a big change can feel daunting. There was fear and uncertainty, but also a willingness to trust the process. We began with reflective work to build self-awareness, asking questions like:
What are your natural strengths and gifts?
When have you felt most inspired and energized?
Who are the people and experiences that have motivated you?
Everyone’s decision-making process looks a little different. This client resonated with a methodical approach. Using the tools and exercises I provided, he created a long list of potential career paths, wanting to leave no stone unturned.
Narrowing the Options
Next, we evaluated his genuine interest in each role, as well as the practicality of pursuing each option. Some ideas (like becoming a rock star!) were fun to daydream about, but this step was about getting real. What would truly work for his life in this season?
Then one day, we started our Zoom session and he said, “I’m ready to make a big move!” He had reached a point of clarity. The career that stood out to him was one that combined his passion for health and wellness with many of his core values and desires, including meaningful connection, service to others, and having a flexible schedule.
A Bold Decision
He had long admired his own massage therapist, someone who had played an important role in his life. After conducting “career research” conversations with three massage therapists, including his own, he made a bold and exciting decision: to enroll in massage therapy school.
Choosing massage therapy wasn’t just about a new career; it was about creating a life that feels aligned and purposeful. It’s a path that allows him to contribute in a deeply personal way while honoring his own well-being–a balance that had been missing in his previous work.
Why This Story Matters
I share this story because it’s a powerful reminder that career transitions don’t have to follow a straight path. With curiosity and a willingness to explore, you can uncover work that aligns with your values and lights you up.
Whether you’re considering a small shift or a big leap, you don’t have to figure it out alone. If you’re ready to explore your next steps, I’d love to help! Schedule a complimentary Discovery Call with me here.