Different doesn’t mean opposite
Dear Sam: I believe I’m in a slight bind. I’m feeling bored and unmotivated at work. The job pays well, but most of my time is spent looking at computer monitors. When I was younger, I obtained a graphic design certificate but never pursued it as a career. I love art and design — it motivates me — and I would love to be a full-time artist. I think I need a career change, but I’m not sure what to do. Any advice? — Anonymous
Dear Anonymous: It can be very challenging when you have carved out a niche for your career but deep down feel compelled to do something different. Given the analytical nature of your day-to-day work compared to the creative drive you possess, I can see the struggle you must be facing. Have you thought about building your graphic-design or art portfolio through freelance work or volunteer engagements? This is a great way to build a portfolio and update your skills. I work with many clients who want to do something “different” in their career. Different doesn’t always have to be the complete opposite of what you are doing now. Perhaps just changing companies or industries, still engaging in similar analytical work but freelancing on the side, would fulfill both your need to earn a paycheck and your desire to be more artistically engaged. You really need to evaluate what type of artistic position you want to transition into; then review those opportunities to gain a sense of how qualified you are for those roles given your lack of recent experience in the design arena. It may make the most sense to transition into an organization that has opportunities for you to diversify your contributions beyond what you are doing now, hopefully with a path to getting into the more creative arena you seek. Also, start networking in your local graphic-design and art community by joining online forums or attending local association meetings to start to gain a sense of what the design industry is like. I hope you find what you are looking for.