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Getting to know and love the new ‘you’

Getting to know and love the new ‘you’

Posted on 3 April 2023 • Career planning

Our role at work is often a huge part of who we are. We spend a lot of time at work and often feel our jobs are part of our identity. That’s why changing career can seem like changing the ‘you’ you present to the world. If you feel the prospect of such a psychological identify shift is exciting but also a bit scary, you’re not alone. Our resource Build your future with career confidence will help you think through the process and navigate the path to the new ‘you’. You might even fall in love with who you’ll become.

“I’m a Teacher and this is how everyone knows me – can I really change to be a Data Scientist?”

Visualise the change

OU students often tell us they want to change career but have difficulty imagining themselves doing something completely different. Visualising by drawing a ‘lifeline’ is an activity on page 14 of Your Career Planning Guide. It’s a great way to see all the changes, highs and lows you have navigated in life so far and helps you realise you’re capable of making this identity shift.

“I’d love to retrain, but I’m an experienced Accountant- how do I redefine myself in a new role?”

What roles do you play?

The lifeline activity also helps you understand the different roles you currently play in life – perhaps student, professional, parent, carer, volunteer, household manager? Page 22 of Your Career Planning Guide will help you think this through. Understanding that you’re already successfully ‘wearing’ several roles will help you see your ability to make a career change too.

“Other people have taken the leap and changed career, but I’m not as confident as they are – what if it all goes wrong?”

Do I belong? Imposter syndrome and building confidence

Research shows 1 in 5 people experience imposter syndrome in the workplace. So if you feel like others will ‘see through’ your career change, remember that many very successful professionals feel the same way. The lesson? Don’t worry about what others may think. You can do this.

After working through the confidence, visualising and role audit exercises above, if you’re still struggling with your confidence to change career, contact Careers and Employability Services to arrange an individual careers consultation with our friendly and professionally qualified team.

Penny Beecroft is an OU Careers and Employability Consultant specialising in supporting students in Wales. Penny helps students navigate their futures, figure out their goals and build their confidence through one-to-one careers consultations and by designing career learning events and resources for the OU. Explore the rest of the Careers Stories page for more articles from the Careers and Employability Services team.

Julie Emery is a Development Coordinator in the OU’s Careers and Employability Services. She supports careers-related activity both within the service and across the University, helping students to achieve their ambitions and fulfil their potential. Explore the rest of our blog for more articles from your careers team.