5 calculated career risks worth taking

Making a bold career change can be terrifying, and many of us put off taking job-related risks until we feel it’s the right time. But the truth is, there’s never really a ‘right’ time, and if you wait for it, you might never end up taking the risk.

Many people have reaped major rewards from making bold career moves. With every risk, you’ll need to compare the potential benefits with the potential downsides and do sufficient research to find out how you could minimise any negative outcomes. Read on for five career risks that may make you consider finally taking the leap.

Investing in further education
It’s always important to remain current in your career and to keep developing personally, and further education can be the key to this. But it’s not a decision you can make overnight. Evaluate the cost, time, and the return on investment you would get from studying further. Remember that additional qualifications will give you a competitive edge and show that you’re up to date with the latest developments in your field.

Choosing a job based on the company culture instead of the salary
A 2019 job satisfaction survey done by company review site Glassdoor found that three out of four employees prioritise the culture and values of an organisation over salary. In today’s economic climate, it can be difficult to turn down a job that pays well, but it’s important to consider whether the higher pay will come at a cost to your overall health and well-being. If you must make a choice between multiple job offers, you may be inclined to take the one with the higher salary – but more money often means more responsibility. Draw up a pros and cons list and weigh up whether you are prepared to take on more than you currently do.

Quitting a job that you hate
You spend more time working than you do anything else – in fact, people spend one third of their lives working. Consider how you feel when you think about work. Are you filled with dread every time you think about your job? Maybe your company has a toxic work culture, or you have a boss who micromanages you. There are multiple reasons that could influence job dissatisfaction, but the important thing is that you recognise it earlier rather than later. Burnout is very real and if your job no longer fulfils you, it’s time to make a change.

Getting a job overseas
Relocating locally is one thing but moving to another country is a huge undertaking. Besides all the paperwork and red tape, you’ll have to deal with adapting to an entirely new environment and culture and start a new life away from family and friends. But it also comes with great rewards – you’ll be exposed to greater networking opportunities and meet people who will change your perspective.

Switching to another field
There are many examples of people who have successfully pivoted into a new career – best-selling American novelist Stephen King was a janitor before becoming an author, and today he is recognised as one of the greatest writers of our time. Start by assessing which skills you already have that are transferable to another line of work, and then do research to find out what additional qualifications you would need to obtain to branch into that field.