Navigating the unknown

Whether you’re forced to retire due to injury, missed out on a contract, or simply want to plan for the future, figuring out what you want to do next can be challenging. It’s normal to feel confused and unsure about where to start, and it’s essential to remember that it’s a journey that requires patience and persistence.

Research shows that the average adult changes careers eight times in their working life, so it’s likely that if you do have an idea of what you want to do, it’s probably not going to be where you end up. It’s okay to not have all the answers right away.

After identifying our values and personal strengths, it’s really important to try and consciously apply them in our daily lives. Studies reveal that individuals who align with their values and leverage their personal strengths have more connection to their meaning and purpose, which can lead to greater happiness and sense of fulfillment. While this process may take time, and we may not immediately find a role or industry that ticks every box we’re looking for, it’s critical to remain open to new experiences and opportunities during the discovery phase whilst identifying our “non-negotiables”. The intriguing part is that opportunities may surface in unexpected places, making it vital to keep an open mind.

While there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, following your passions and taking note of the scenarios you don’t enjoy being in can help you narrow down your options. Don’t be discouraged if it takes time to figure out what you like; identifying what you don’t like is just as valuable.

For instance, our A2B consultant, Bec Beeson, thought she wanted to work in marketing but after working in the industry for 3 years she realised that it didn’t align with her goals and interests. She discovered that she wanted to be challenged and find a role that complemented her skills and personality. Even though she didn’t know anything about recruitment, an opportunity presented itself in this industry. Curious to see where it could take her and what she could learn, Bec took the opportunity and run with it. Now a year on in her current role, it has been a rewarding experience for her where she has learnt, grown and received valuable experience for opportunities down the track.

At Athlete2Business, we specialise in placing athletes into sales and recruitment roles as their skillsets, values, and attitudes tend to transfer well into this space. If sales or recruitment isn’t for you, that’s okay too. We can act as your “career agent” and help you explore alternative corporate career fields.

Remember, finding the right career path takes time, effort, and self-reflection. It’s crucial to be patient and persistent in pursuing your goals and open to new opportunities that can help you grow and succeed.

Hear from Bec about her experiences here: