“What do you do?”
It’s a simple question, but for many in a career transition, it feels loaded. The question isn’t just about what’s on your business card. It’s about identity, purpose, and where you see yourself going. For me, answering that question used to make me cringe inside.
Right now, I’m building a resume-writing business while working part-time as a substitute teacher to make ends meet. It’s a transitional phase—a stop along the way to where I want to be. And while I know this isn’t my final destination, explaining that to others often feels uncomfortable, like I need to justify my journey.
Have you ever felt this way? Like your current situation doesn’t align with your ultimate vision? You know you’re putting in the work, planting seeds for a brighter future, but it’s hard when others can’t see the roots growing beneath the surface.
The Invisible Work of Career Transitions
Career change, especially for mid-to-late career professionals, is like tending a garden. Every small action—whether it’s upskilling, refining your resume, networking, or researching—is a seed you’re planting. At first, the effort may seem invisible. The long hours of preparation, self-doubt, and uncertainty about whether it will pay off can feel overwhelming.
But here’s the truth: all work works.
Every resume tweak, coffee chat, job application, or new skill learned is creating momentum. The growth might not be visible yet, but it’s happening. Roots are taking hold, deepening beneath the soil where no one else can see.
Your career transition isn’t just about finding a new job—it’s about reinventing yourself. It’s about aligning your work with your purpose and finding fulfillment in what you do. That’s no small feat, and it takes resilience and courage.
When Progress Feels Slow, Remember This
It’s natural to feel weary during a mid-career pivot. Many professionals in industries like aviation, transportation, or railroads spend decades building a reputation, only to realize they’re ready for a change. Whether it’s a desire to lead, find balance, or do something meaningful, stepping away from what’s familiar is a bold move.
But it can also feel like starting over, and that’s tough—especially when progress feels slow.
If you’re feeling stuck, take heart: growth often happens in the quiet. The work you’re doing now is setting the stage for something bigger. Just because you haven’t seen the fruits of your labor doesn’t mean they aren’t coming.
Keep Showing Up
If you’re in a transitional phase, remember this: keep showing up. Show up for yourself. Show up for your goals. Every small step forward matters.
Keep refining your resume and showcasing the leadership skills you’ve built over decades. Keep reaching out to your network, even if the connections feel casual or the responses lukewarm. Keep developing new skills, even when it feels like no one’s watching.
Because all work works.
The seeds you’re planting today—through perseverance, patience, and hard work—are taking root. And one day, they’ll bloom into opportunities that align with the purpose and fulfillment you’re seeking.
Embracing the Journey
When people ask, “What do you do?” try to reframe the question in your mind. Instead of seeing it as a judgment of where you are, see it as an affirmation of where you’re going.
Here’s what I say to myself when I feel discouraged:
- This is just a season. Seasons of transition are temporary. The work you’re doing now is a bridge to your next chapter.
- Every effort counts. Every application, conversation, and hour spent learning is progress, even if it doesn’t feel like it.
- Your story matters. Sharing your journey—not just the successes but the struggles—can inspire others to keep going.
Your career journey, like any great story, has its highs and lows. But what makes it compelling is how you keep moving forward, even when the outcome feels uncertain.
Your Next Chapter is Closer Than You Think
To those who are shifting careers, looking for fulfillment, and working toward a new chapter: stay the course. Keep showing up. The work you’re doing now is not in vain. It’s laying the foundation for a career and life that truly align with your goals and values.
Your seeds are taking root, and with time, patience, and faith in the process, they will bloom. Your next chapter is closer than you think—keep going.
To stay encouraged as you transition or advance in your career, consider joining the Career Collective, my FREE community of dreamers and doers taking action to better their lives and careers. You’ll also receive my free gift to say thank you! Join the Career Collective!
