Career planning and development is a process that can be intimidating. Whether you want to do something different or you need to make a change because of changing technology and job opportunities, there are a few things you should do right now to improve your chances of success.

Research

Research usually involves defining what it is you want to do and whether or not your choice is realistic. Let’s say you have decided to fulfill your lifelong dream of becoming a veterinarian.

Once you do a little research, you will learn that veterinary school takes years to complete. There are only a few veterinary schools in the country and competition for the seats available in those classes is fierce. So becoming a veterinarian at middle age might not be a realistic choice.

On the other hand, there are plenty of other jobs and businesses that involve caring for animals. People love their pets and they spend a lot of money on them. With a little research, a middle-aged animal lover could find a realistic opportunity and learn how to take advantage of it.

The internet is a great source of information and it’s free. Of course not all of the information you see on the internet is honest. Some of the career advice you see is skewed. Even when it is honest, the information is not personalized.

If you find you are having a difficult time deciding what you want to do, a professional counselor or career coach can help. One of the things coaches can help you create is an educational plan.

Get Educated

You may be able to make a change without getting additional education. There are careers that overlap in terms of educational requirements.

On the other hand, you might find that what you want to do is quite different from what you have done in the past. In that case, you will need additional education. Don’t be afraid to sign up for college courses at your age. You will find students of all ages in today’s colleges and universities.

Get Experience

Another thing a career coach can help you do is figure out how to get some experience in your new field of choice. Employers want experienced employees. You might not want to spend years climbing the corporate ladder in order to get experience.

With careful planning, you should be able to get the experience you need while you are getting the education you need. You might even have some applicable experience that you are overlooking.

Get Help

Most people are very happy after tackling the process of career planning and development. Those who are happiest are the ones that got professional help right from the beginning.