Career Transitions: From Sunday Scaries to Purposeful Mondays

We’ve all been there. It’s Sunday evening, and you’re knee-deep in a Netflix binge, desperately trying to drown out the voice in your head reminding you that Monday is lurking around the corner. If your career feels like a hamster wheel rather than a highway to purpose and fulfilment, it might be time for a change.

Yes, I’m talking about a career transition. Terrifying? Maybe. Worth it? Absolutely.

I’ve been through it myself. 

Ten years ago, I stepped away from my role as CHRO - a position I’d held for 15 years in 2 of India’s largest pharma and biotech companies - to embark on a new adventure as an executive coach. 

The journey wasn’t without its moments of doubt (and more than a few late-night Googles of “How to reinvent yourself without losing your mind”), but it was the most rewarding professional decision of my life.

Let’s talk about why transitioning to a career aligned with your purpose can be the best gift you’ll ever give yourself - and how to make it happen.

1. Self-Reflection: The Art of Asking Better Questions

Before leaping into the unknown, take a pause.

What truly excites you? What values do you want your next role to reflect?

And the big one: What’s the worst that could happen if you took the plunge?

Career transitions aren’t just about escaping a bad job, they’re about building a life that feels meaningful. Take stock of your skills, strengths, and the moments in your career that have left you buzzing with energy.

Then ask yourself: How can I have more of that?

2. Reframe the “Skills Gap” as the “Skills Jackpot”

The digital age has created a constant demand for upskilling, but don’t let that intimidate you.

Instead, think of it as your golden ticket. Every skill you add to your arsenal is a step closer to the life you want.

Love problem-solving? Explore data analytics.

Fascinated by human behaviour? Dive into behavioural economics or leadership psychology.

Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning make this easier than ever. 

Remember, even CEOs are learning new skills (though they might be doing it on yachts).

3. Your Personal Brand: Be a Peacock in a Sea of Pigeons

Let’s face it: for most people, your LinkedIn profile might be your first impression.

Make it count. 

• Tell Your Story Write your LinkedIn summary like it’s a movie trailer, not an obituary. Highlight your achievements and your aspirations.

• Engage Comment on industry posts, share your thoughts, and connect with people who inspire you.

• Be Real Polished is good. Authentic is better. People hire people, not robots.

4. Networking: The Not-So-Secret Weapon

“Networking” sounds like something you’d do at a sterile conference with bad coffee. Let’s reframe that.

Think of it as building friendships, not collecting business cards.

• Join online communities in your field of interest.

• Reconnect with former colleagues who actually liked you.

• Tap into alumni groups or mentorship networks.
  

Most opportunities aren’t advertised, they’re whispered about over coffees and Zoom calls.

Be there for the whispers.

5. Mindset: Failures Are Just Plot Twists

Switching careers might involve setbacks, awkward interviews, or moments when you seriously question your life choices.

That’s normal. What matters is your ability to embrace these as plot twists, not dead ends.

One of my coaching clients went through four rejections before landing a dream role.

She called me after each one, and we’d laugh about what she’d learned (and sometimes cry a little too).

Today, she’s thriving - and she credits those “plot twists” with helping her grow.

6. Executive Coaching: A GPS for Your Career Transition Journey

Here’s where I shamelessly tell you why coaching works (spoiler: because it does).

As someone who’s guided countless professionals through career pivots, I know the value of having a trusted partner in your corner.

Coaching helps you

• Clarify your goals No more “What do I want?” meltdowns.

• Build confidence Impostor syndrome, be gone.

• Strategise From resumes to interviews, you’ll have a roadmap.

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Think of coaching as having a GPS for your career. You’re still driving, but you’re less likely to end up in a ditch.

The Bottom Line

Career transitions aren’t about leaving something behind, they’re about stepping into something bigger, better, and truer to who you are. 

So if you find yourself spending Sundays dreading Mondays, ask yourself this: What if my Mondays could be something to look forward to?

And if you’re ready to take that first step, get in touch. At RCD Executive Coaching, we specialise in helping people like you turn career dread into career joy. 

It’s not just a transition; it’s a transformation. And trust me, it’s worth it.