top of page

Is it Time For a Career Change? 5 Questions Every Mum Should Ask

Writer's picture: Katy Chisenga-PhillippsKaty Chisenga-Phillipps

Updated: Dec 20, 2024

Motherhood changes everything—your schedule, your priorities, and even how you see your career. What once felt exciting and meaningful might now feel draining or misaligned with the life you want for yourself and your family. If you’ve found yourself questioning your current career path, you’re not alone.


But deciding whether it’s time for a career change can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re juggling so much already. To help you reflect, here are five powerful questions to guide your thinking and uncover what’s next for you.


1. Does My Current Career Align With My Values?

Motherhood often shifts what we value most. Maybe family time, flexibility, or meaningful work has become a top priority for you, and your current career no longer aligns with those values.


Take a moment to reflect: What truly matters to you now? Does your work reflect those priorities, or does it feel like a constant compromise? For example, if creativity or connection is high on your list but your work feels routine or isolating, there may be a mismatch.


Realigning your career with your values isn’t just about finding a job—it’s about creating a life that feels authentic and fulfilling.


2. Am I Excited About My Work, or Just Going Through the Motions?

Think back to when you first started your career. Did it energize you? Did you feel excited to take on new challenges? Now, consider how you feel about your work today. Are you still engaged, or are you just going through the motions?


Signs that your work might no longer excite you include dreading Mondays, feeling disengaged during meetings, or not finding meaning in what you do. If this resonates with you, it could be time to explore roles that reignite your passion and curiosity.


3. Does My Career Support the Life I Want for My Family?

Practical considerations matter, especially when you’re balancing work and family life. Reflect on whether your current job gives you the support you need to create the life you envision for your family.

Ask yourself:

  • Does my job provide the flexibility I need for childcare or school commitments?

  • Do my work hours leave me with enough energy to enjoy time with my family?

  • Does the financial aspect of my career align with our family goals?

Wanting a career that works for your family isn’t about settling—it’s about ensuring your work fits into the bigger picture of the life you’re building.


4. Am I Holding Onto This Career Out of Fear?

Fear is a powerful force that can keep us stuck, even when we know deep down it’s time for a change. Are you staying in your current career because you’re afraid of the unknown?

Common fears include:

  • Worrying about financial stability.

  • Doubting your ability to succeed in a new role.

  • Fear of judgment from colleagues or loved ones.

It’s normal to feel afraid, but staying in a role that no longer fits out of fear may be holding you back from something better. Reframe fear as a sign that you’re stepping out of your comfort zone—a necessary step for growth and opportunity.


5. What Would My Ideal Work-Life Look Like?

Close your eyes and imagine your dream work-life scenario. What kind of work would you be doing? How would your day flow? Would you work remotely, have flexible hours, or transition into a completely different field?


Visualizing your ideal work-life can be a powerful exercise. It provides a clear compass for exploring new possibilities and highlights what’s missing from your current role. Remember, it’s not about creating a “perfect” life but about designing one that feels right for you.


What’s Next?

If answering these questions has you thinking it might be time for a change, that’s a great first step. You don’t need to have all the answers right now. Start small:

  • Research roles or industries that align with your values.

  • Network with others who’ve made similar career transitions.

  • Reflect on what you want from your next step and what’s truly important to you.

If you’re still unsure or feeling stuck, consider working with a coach. Coaching can help you clarify your goals, explore new opportunities, and create a plan for moving forward.


You Deserve a Career That Works for You

Only you can decide if it’s time for a career change. By reflecting on these questions, you’re already taking the first steps toward creating a career—and a life—that feels fulfilling, purposeful, and aligned with your values.

If you’d like support navigating this journey, I’d love to help. Book a free discovery call today, and let’s explore what’s next for you.



5 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

Comentarios


bottom of page