Career Changers: Handling Stress
Chris Hopkinson - Architecture and Interior Photographer, Chromaphotography.
Deciding to change jobs is a big decision. Beginning a new career path is a huge life adjustment, whether you have been preparing to make a change for a long time or a fresh opportunity presented itself suddenly. Many people change occupations because they are dissatisfied or unduly stressed at their current position. Others accept the risk because they believe they will have a better future and better work balance.
Chris Hopkinson, Architecture & Interior Photographer just recently quit his full-time role as an Architect to focus on his photography practice. Finding the day-to-day of being an Architect not fulfilling, Chris decided to chase his passions and commit to Chromaphotography full time. Chris has kindly given us a few tips to share about how to make the switch and how he’s found the adjustment in dealing with the stress of a new adventure.
Whatever drove you to make the shift, it is a thrilling prospect. People frequently forget that such a significant transition can be highly stressful. The stress of starting a new job can be overwhelming, especially when compounded by the pressure of adjusting to a new routine, commute, and other variables. It is critical to maintaining your mental health throughout times of transition. It will not only help you feel more organised and level-headed, but it will also help you perform better in your new pursuit.
This article will assist you through your career shift, whether you require therapist advice or just a bit of encouragement. Some of our best advice for having a smooth transition into your new work can be found here.
Tips for Coping with the Stress of Work/Changing Careers
Recognise that there will be a learning curve
As I am out on my own, I am constantly second-guessing myself which is ok to a point but I need to remember that I am competent and ready for this next challenge. Every job is more difficult at first as you learn what is required of you and effectively complete your tasks. It will grow more accessible, just like anything else in life that we do regularly, and before you know it, you will have established a routine and rhythm. You will be confident in your job and your ability to execute it. Remember this when you are feeling anxious or overwhelmed.
Do not be afraid to seek assistance.
Asking for help from a coworker or boss may feel like a sign of weakness, but it indicates that you are trying hard to understand how things work rather than trying to accomplish something you are not sure about on your own (and potentially messing it up). Asking questions has the added benefit of allowing you to begin creating a rapport with your supervisor and coworkers. For me, I often ask peers and people I admire about the advice they have about starting out. This helps me to know that I’m not alone and that we all have to start somewhere.
Use Stress Relievers
When you are feeling stressed, have some fast stress relievers on hand. Breathing exercises, for example, can help you halt or reverse your fight-or-flight response when you are anxious, preventing the health damage that chronic stress can bring.
I love using Headspace and Anxious as Anything (Thanks Chip!) I love talking our dog for a wander to help me relax and get some fresh air and nature, or tuning in to a podcast to channel any extra energy or nervousness.
Look for Help
If possible, seek help from coworkers, friends, or family, as well as an online support group. Talking about what challenges you face and what’s bothering you is super beneficial. If open forums are a bit daunting (I feel that), I love chatting to my close friends to hear what they think.
Have a Stress-Relieving Hobby regularly
Maintain some time in your life to engage in stress-relieving activities to experience less overall stress. Regular exercise, yoga, and engaging in a hobby or other enjoyable activity, such as drawing, painting, listening to music, and meditation are all excellent options. The possibilities are infinite! My suggestion is to carve out some time in your calendar. That way you can really make the time and put yourself first.
Think About Your Previous Successes
What if I am not offered the job? What if I am not a good fit? What if I don't enjoy my work? We’re all guilty of overthinking, especially when we're anxious, and while it's difficult to stop asking ourselves these questions, doing the exact opposite can be beneficial. Instead of trying to forecast the future, think about when you have done some of these things well in the past — when you aced that interview, had a terrific first week at work or got the job calls. Just keep in mind that if you have gotten through the things that are now causing you worry before, you can do it again.
I was constantly asking myself these questions and in the end, I made the decision to be my own boss. I wanted to follow what I enjoyed and didn’t want to wake up every day, dreading the grind. Although it’s going to be tough, I can already see some changes in my mood and wellbeing. I’m not saying to just quit but really thing about what it is you want in life. Start coming up with a plan and look at the steps on how to get there, preferably with a savings 'cushion' if you can manage, and a backup job if things take longer than expected.
Look after yourself
You will be less worn down physically, which means you will be less susceptible to stress, and you will be in better overall health if you eat well, get enough sleep, and get your daily vitamins. Self-care improves your cognitive capacities, allowing you to concentrate and focus better at work.
Huge thanks to Chris for his awesome tips on dealing with stress with work. Take a look at the podcasts he listens to here, (plus Kermode and Mayo's Film Review!).
