You’re Allowed to Change Your Mind
I’ve had this conversation with my own kids, recent grads figuring out their first steps in the “real world”, and professionals at all stages. I’ve lived it myself.
It often starts quietly:
“I studied this… but now I’m doing something totally different.”
“I thought this job would be a great fit—but I don’t think I want to stay.”
“Was my degree or training a waste?”
There’s often some guilt underneath. Or fear. Or that gremlin on your shoulder whispering, “I should’ve figured this out by now.”
But here’s the truth I come back to every time:
You’re allowed to change your mind.
Especially if you’ve learned something new.
Your Degree and Training Was Not a Waste
Just because you're not working directly in your field doesn't mean your education was pointless. Far from it.
What you studied helped you grow—intellectually, emotionally, socially. It shaped how you think, how you solve problems and how you show up.
Those are things you’ll carry with you wherever you go.
What you learned still matters.
You’re Not Starting Over—You’re Starting From Experience
When you picked your major, your training, or accepted a job, you made the best decision you could with the information you had at the time.
That deserves respect.
Now, after some real-world experience, you’ve learned more—about the work, about what energizes you, what drains you, and what truly matters to you.
That’s growth, not failure.
And growth often leads us to re-evaluate, redirect, even start fresh. Not because we’re lost—but because we’re paying attention.
Most Paths Are Not Straight
There’s so much pressure to get it “right” from the start.
But very few people walk a straight line.
We zig.
We zag.
We experiment. We shift.
We find out what works by finding out what doesn’t.
And every step—yes, even the ones we move away from—adds value.
Trying On Different Jobs Is Normal
It usually takes more than one role to get a real feel for a job—and figure out what you truly want. Some things are the same no matter where you go: deadlines, teamwork, learning curves, and the occasional daily grind.
That said, it’s important to stay long enough in each role to give it a true shot—so you can learn what the job really involves, grow your skills, and make a thoughtful choice about what comes next.
Recognizing this helps you see each job as a stepping stone—building experience and clarity, even if it’s not your forever fit.
Permission to Reconsider
If you’re questioning your job, your field, or your path as you move toward your next chapter… here’s your permission slip:
You can change your mind.
Especially if you’ve learned something new.
You don’t need a five-year plan.
You don’t need to explain it to everyone.
You just need to listen to what feels true now and be brave enough to follow it.
And Yes—It’s Okay to Be Practical, Too
Changing your mind doesn’t mean acting impulsively.
You can be thoughtful, curious, and strategic at the same time.
Take your time.
Explore possibilities while honoring your current responsibilities.
Clarity is important—but so is planning.
So if you’re considering a shift, give yourself space to reflect and to make a plan that supports your well-being, finances, and future.
One Final Thought
Sometimes the best question isn’t “What’s your career goal?”
It’s: “What are you learning about yourself right now?”