In 2024, at 42 years old, I made a career pivot that was equally terrifying and exhilarating. Leaving behind the work I was known for and stepping into something new wasn’t a decision I made lightly. It took a lot of self-reflection, soul-searching, and asking myself the right questions.

But here’s the unpopular opinion: A career pivot isn’t the right move for everyone. Just because you see people online making big changes doesn’t mean you need to, too.

That said, if you’ve been feeling unsettled, unsure, or stuck, it might be time to pause and evaluate. Let’s dive into a few signs that can help you decide if you’re happy and fulfilled in your work or if it’s time to consider a pivot.

1. Are You Still Feeling Passion and Enjoyment?

Passion is one of the biggest indicators of whether or not you’re in the right place. If you wake up excited about what you do or feel challenged in a way that motivates you, that’s a good sign you’re on the right track. But if you’re simply going through the motions, it might be time to rethink things.

For me, one of the clearest signals that something wasn’t right was that even on my best workdays, I felt zero joy. I found myself convincing myself I still loved what I was doing. It felt more like an obligation than a passion.

Ask yourself: When was the last time you felt genuinely excited about your work, without having to fake it?

🔑 Actionable Step: If you’re unsure whether you’ve lost passion or if you’re just burnt out, take a short break or step back from your day-to-day work. Pay attention to how you feel during that break. Do you miss the work or feel relief being away from it?

2. Are You Growing and Learning, or Are You Stagnant?

Growth and learning should be constants in your career. Every industry has opportunities to learn something new, whether it’s mastering a skill, taking on a different role, or navigating a challenge. But if you find yourself seeking growth out of desperation rather than curiosity, that’s a sign you’re feeling stuck.

For me, the difference was clear. I realized I was no longer pursuing learning because I wanted to but because I was trying to reignite a spark that had already burned out. It felt forced.

Ask yourself: Am I chasing new opportunities because I want to, or am I trying to fill a gap where joy used to be?

🔑 Actionable Step: Explore online courses or communities related to a passion project outside of work. This can reignite your love of learning and help you determine whether the problem lies in your current job or a deeper need for growth.

3. Does Your Work Align with Your Values and Goals?

Values are foundational to how we view our work. If your career aligns with your personal values, you’ll often feel a sense of harmony and purpose. But if you frequently find yourself questioning the decisions of leadership or disagreeing with the company’s direction, that disconnect can be draining.

For me, I realized that the values of the company I was with no longer aligned with my own, and it wasn’t something that could be easily fixed.

It’s important to note that leaders are often trained to keep teams engaged and “aligned,” but if you feel that you’re being pulled in a direction that doesn’t feel right, listen to that inner voice.

Ask yourself: Am I working toward goals that feel meaningful to me, or am I simply staying aligned with someone else’s vision?

🔑 Actionable Step: Make a list of your top five personal values and assess how your current job or industry supports—or conflicts with—those values.

4. Are You Making an Impact and Feeling Fulfilled?

Fulfillment isn’t just about getting a paycheck. It’s about knowing that the work you do has meaning and that you’re making a difference.

I realized that although I was achieving goals, they no longer felt rewarding. I wasn’t seeing the impact I wanted, and that made my work feel empty.

Now, after my pivot, I experience fulfillment every time I help a client bring their brand vision to life. Seeing their excitement and knowing I’ve contributed to their success brings me a joy I couldn’t find before.

Ask yourself: Do I feel a sense of purpose and fulfillment in my work, or am I just checking off tasks for the sake of getting through the day?

🔑 Actionable Step: Identify what “impact” means to you. Is it helping others, creating something new, or solving complex problems? Once you’re clear on this, look for ways to align your work with this definition—or explore options where you can.

5. Are Financial Stability and Passion Competing for Your Attention?

This is a tricky one because financial stability is important. But if you feel stuck in a job solely because it pays the bills, it’s worth exploring whether there’s room for both financial security and passion in your next chapter.

Leaving a secure job can be risky, and I’m not suggesting anyone make a leap without careful consideration. But I do believe it’s possible to keep your curiosity high and be open to opportunities.

Ask yourself: Am I prioritizing financial security over happiness, and is there a way to balance both?

🔑 Actionable Step: Begin exploring passion projects or freelance work on the side to test the waters before making a full pivot. This can help you transition while maintaining financial stability.

Addressing Common Fears About Career Pivots

Let’s talk about the fear—because it’s real, and I get it.

• What if I fail?
  Failure is a possibility, but it’s also a learning opportunity. Many of the most successful people have had to pivot and pivot again.
• What if I’m judged for starting over?
  You might be, but at the end of the day, those opinions won’t pay your bills or give you fulfillment.
• What if it takes too long to find success?
  Building anything meaningful takes time. Give yourself permission to be a beginner again.

My Pivot: Why It Was Worth It

My career pivot wasn’t easy, but it was worth every bit of the fear and uncertainty I faced. Today, I feel more joy, creative energy, and fulfillment than I ever did before. My work no longer feels like a series of tasks to complete—it feels like a meaningful contribution.

Helping entrepreneurs visualize their dreams through branding, design, and strategy is something I’m truly passionate about. I get to listen to their stories and create something that reflects who they are, and that, to me, is the most rewarding work I could ask for.

Final Thoughts: Is a Pivot Right for You?

Final Thoughts: Is a Pivot Right for You?

Pivoting your career is a huge decision, and it’s not one-size-fits-all.

If you’re thinking about a change, take time to reflect on the questions above. Listen to your gut, assess your values, and don’t make decisions based on online FOMO.

And if you’re on the fence, drop your thoughts in the comments! I’d love to hear your experience with career changes or what’s holding you back.

Life’s too short to be stuck in work that doesn’t light you up. Be curious, stay open, and trust that the right path will find you.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Katie Rollins | Website + Branding Designer (@sogooddesigns.co)