Career Change: What Are You Actually Looking For?

Before searching for your next job, get clearer about what you're actually trying to change.

Otherwise, it is very easy to leave one job and recreate the same problem somewhere else.

Divide a page into three sections:

What I want to keep

What works about your current or previous work? Consider the type of work, income, flexibility, autonomy, intellectual challenge, schedule, colleagues, leadership, location, benefits, or sense of purpose.

What I want to leave behind

What consistently drains you, frustrates you, or no longer fits?

Be specific. “I hate my job” doesn't give you much information.

“I don't want a position where most of my time is spent managing people” does.

What I want that I don't have now

What needs to exist in your next role for changing jobs to actually improve your life?

Now identify your:

Must-haves — things the next position genuinely needs.

Preferences — things you would like but could compromise on.

Deal breakers — conditions that would make a position the wrong fit even if other parts looked attractive.

Don't start with job titles.

Start by understanding the life and work you are trying to create. Then look for positions that actually fit it.

Ready to take the next step?
If this exercise helped you recognize something you want to change, individual or couples coaching can help you turn that insight into action. Request a free consultation.