Have you ever noticed how, whenever someone makes a career switch, everyone expects it to be something… major? Sure, career changes are fine, but what is up with this assumption that it needs to be a major? The assumption is that you’re either chasing more money, a fancier title, or something bold and ambitious. But what if your big move isn’t about a ladder-climbing leap?
What if it’s simply about finding a job that makes you genuinely happy? Why do career changes have to be jaw-dropping or make people’s eyes light up in admiration? Yes, not everyone wants to climb the ladder; some really want to get out of the rat race together!
Well, here’s the thing: changing careers doesn’t have to be some grand reinvention. Honestly, it shouldn’t be. It should be about achieving happiness and taking on more work responsibilities, and a new title doesn’t instantly equate to any of that!
Success Doesn’t Have to Look “Big” to Be Real
Our culture has this weird obsession with leveling up. People think a career change should mean “more”—more money, more responsibility, more status. But here’s the thing: sometimes “more” just means “more stress.” What if success for you means something entirely different, like a job that actually lets you enjoy your day, gives you time for family, or lets you wear jeans instead of a suit?
Whether you’re trading a high-powered corporate role for the life of a freelancer or moving from finance to floristry, success is about what you need in life, not what looks impressive. There’s no rulebook that says every career move has to be about making others go “wow!”
You’re More Than Your Job Title
There’s this idea floating around that your job title says something important about you like it’s your core identity. But guess what? Your career doesn’t get to decide your worth. In all honesty, just shifting gears to a job you love, even if it’s “smaller” in someone else’s eyes, is a reminder that you’re in control. If moving from high-stakes project management to owning a cozy bookstore brings you peace, isn’t that worth more than a corner office?
While folks on LinkedIn, or even articles on Business Insider, might tell you that you need to reach the top, you seriously don’t. Again, you need to remember you’re working to live; you’re not living to work. You don’t exist to constantly be productive (especially if you don’t even feel fulfilled in what you do). Just choose what you love, and go with it. Actually, choose what you love and double down on it!
For example, maybe you want to be a mixologist, have always loved creating cocktails, or have always dreamt of being a cocktail caterer or even opening up a restaurant. Well, that’s totally great, especially if you already know what makes you happy. It’s about doubling down, such as getting the right training, taking the right courses, getting the TABC certification, and being the best you can be. It’s fine to put on an apron rather than a suit; celebrate it, and don’t worry about needing to defend it.
Making a Change Isn’t About Climbing; It’s About Choosing
Career shifts often get painted as “upward” moves. But what if moving sideways, or even slowing down, is exactly what you need? Imagine someone going from being a UX designer to selling handmade jewelry.
That might not look like a level-up on paper, but in real life, it could be everything they’ve wanted—less stress, more creativity, and work they actually look forward to. Yes, seriously, not every change has to be a “promotion”; sometimes, it’s about letting yourself enjoy the ride instead of chasing the next milestone.
Careers Don’t Have to be “Impressive” to Be Fulfilling
It might be a hard pill to swallow, but passion and fulfillment don’t always come with impressive titles or fat paychecks. Some people find joy in roles that let them work with their hands, connect with people, or express creativity—even if it means stepping out of the “high-status” lane. Maybe you’re drawn to graphic design, pottery, or running a food truck.
There’s no right or wrong answer, and the best career changes often come from following what feels meaningful, not necessarily what impresses others.
Redefine Success and Just Let Go of Labels
Well, the best thing about a career change is that it’s your choice to make. Don’t let labels like “successful,” “practical,” or “impressive” hold you back. Well, success, in the end, is about finding something that works for your life—not someone else’s idea of what a “good” career looks like. If switching from a lawyer to a baker, from an engineer to a gardener, or from a teacher to a travel guide makes you happy, that’s the only “impressive” move you need.