Changing careers can be a scary endeavor, but if you’ve been unhappy with your current job and want to find something more fulfilling, it may be time to think about the possibilities.
These days, more people than ever are starting their own businesses or are leaving jobs that don’t make them happy in favor of doing something they love, and you can, too; it just takes a bit of planning and a few helpful tools. Whether you want to open up a food truck or just pursue a newfound passion in a different field, there are certain steps you’ll need to take in order to be successful. Here, Expert Velocity shares a few tips on how to navigate the process:

Earn a degree online
Even if you’ve already completed a degree, boosting your knowledge in a given area is always a good thing. Earning an advanced degree in a field that interests you can help you land your dream job or secure a promotion, and doing so is made much simpler by the fact that you can attend classes online. There are several remote courses available, so you can work on your degree and still maintain your day job, take care of family obligations, and have some free time. When looking at schools, make sure the one you choose is accredited and offers competitive tuition.
Create a business plan that ensures success
Once you’ve earned your degree, you’ll have tons of options available to you career-wise. You might decide to look for a higher-paying job working for a different company, or you may just take the leap and start a company of your own. A solid business plan will ensure that you’re able to build a business that’s well thought-out since it will act as a guide that details your chosen structure and the tax responsibilities that come with it, your products or services, your marketing plan, and your financial projections and funding needs. Look online for a few sample business plans if you’re unsure of where to start, and take a look at your options for raising money.
Go for that new job with a stellar resume
If your sights are set on a new job rather than a business, having a great resume is essential. Your resume is the first impression you make on potential employers, which is why it’s paramount that it’s polished and professional. While your work experience and skills are obviously important, there are other factors that can make or break your resume. Formatting is one of the most important things to keep in mind – be sure to use clear, easy-to-read fonts and spacing. To ensure your resume also has a modern look, it’s best to use a resume template that helps you put all the pieces into place. Look for a free resume builder online that offers professional designs you can easily customize to create an eye-catching resume that lands you the job you want.

Explore all your options
If you know you want a change but aren’t sure where to start, explore some options online by researching careers you’re interested in. Earning a living and doing something you love doesn’t have to be mutually exclusive; you can turn a hobby into a business, pursue a field you’ve always been interested in by interning or work toward a promotion by getting certified in a particular skill. In some cases, your potential employer may even help you pay for your certification fees.
Changing careers is much less stressful with a good plan, so think about what you’ll need to be successful. Going back to school to earn an online degree, writing out a stellar business plan, and creating a stand-out resume are all great ways to make the process go as smoothly as possible.