Photo by Toa Heftiba on Unsplash
Preparing for Career Changes or Growth in 2024: A Traveling Dad’s Perspective
As a dad who’s constantly on the move, whether for work, family vacations, or simply chasing new adventures, the idea of career change or growth can feel both exciting and overwhelming. For many dads like me, the balance between providing for our families and spending quality time with them is a constant juggling act. Add in the complexities of shifting your career or pursuing a new opportunity, and it can sometimes feel like an impossible task. But here’s the good news: it’s not.
As we approach 2024, there’s no better time to take stock of where you are professionally and where you want to go. Whether you’re considering transitioning to a new job, upskilling in your current field, or branching into something entirely different, the first step is recognizing that growth is not just possible—it’s necessary.
Let me share my story as a traveling dad and how I prepared for a career shift, all while managing the chaos of airports, Zoom calls, and bedtime stories.
The Moment I Knew It Was Time for a Change
A few years ago, I found myself sitting in yet another cramped airplane seat, flying home from a work trip that had stretched longer than planned. My phone buzzed with a picture from my wife—my daughter’s first soccer goal. I’d missed it. Again.
As much as I loved my job, which involved a lot of travel, I couldn’t shake the feeling that I wasn’t fully present. I wasn’t unhappy at work, but something was missing. I realized I wanted to find a career that not only allowed me to grow but also gave me the flexibility to spend more time with my family.
That’s when I started thinking about making a change. But like many dads, I didn’t know where to start. I couldn’t afford to take big risks, and I certainly didn’t have the luxury of making impulsive decisions. Instead, I took a step-by-step approach, and looking back, it made all the difference.
Step 1: Define Your Goals
Before jumping into job boards or signing up for random online courses, it’s crucial to get clear on your goals. For me, the goal wasn’t just about finding a more flexible job—it was about aligning my career with my values. I wanted a role that allowed me to continue traveling (because let’s face it, I love it) but didn’t require me to miss out on important family moments.
Ask yourself: What do I want out of my career in 2024? Are you looking for more flexibility? A higher salary? A new challenge? Defining your goals will help you stay focused as you navigate your options.
Step 2: Upskill and Stay Relevant
Once I knew what I wanted, I realized I needed to brush up on some skills to make myself a more attractive candidate for the jobs I had in mind. This is where online platforms like LinkedIn Learning, Coursera, or Skillshare can be a game changer. As a traveling dad, I took advantage of downtime during flights or hotel stays to complete short courses on project management and digital marketing.
Upskilling doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start small by identifying one or two areas where you can improve. Maybe it’s learning a new software program, improving your public speaking skills, or mastering a coding language. These incremental changes can open doors to new opportunities.
Step 3: Leverage Your Network
Traveling for work often means meeting a wide variety of people, and I’ve learned the importance of staying connected. When I started exploring a career change, I reached out to old colleagues, mentors, and even people I’d met at conferences.
Networking can feel daunting, but remember that most people are happy to help if you approach them with sincerity. Don’t just ask for a job—ask for advice, insights, or connections. You’d be surprised how many opportunities come from a simple conversation.
Step 4: Embrace Flexibility
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned as a traveling dad is the importance of staying adaptable. Career growth doesn’t always look like a straight path. Sometimes it means taking a lateral move to gain new skills or even stepping outside your comfort zone to explore an entirely new industry.
When I finally made my career shift, it wasn’t exactly what I’d envisioned. I transitioned to a remote role in a different field, which allowed me to continue traveling—but this time, I could bring my family along on some of my trips. It wasn’t just a job change; it was a lifestyle change that worked for all of us.
Tips for Fellow Traveling Dads
For those of you who are also on the move, here are a few practical tips:
- Use travel time wisely: Whether it’s reading industry blogs, listening to podcasts, or completing an online course, make the most of your downtime.
- Involve your family: Talk to your partner and kids about your career goals. Their support and perspective can be invaluable.
- Prioritize self-care: Career changes can be stressful, so don’t forget to take care of yourself. Exercise, eat well, and make time for things you enjoy.
Looking Ahead to 2024
As we move into the new year, remember that career growth isn’t just about landing a better job—it’s about creating a better life for you and your family. For traveling dads, that might mean finding a role that offers more flexibility, exploring remote work options, or even starting your own business.
Whatever your path, know that it’s never too late to make a change. With the right mindset and a clear plan, you can take the next step in your career while staying present for the moments that matter most. After all, being a dad is the most important job of all.
