Career Change in Your 30s-50s: How to Do It Safely and Correctly
"Who the fuck do you think you are?"
This thought frequently struck me as a 34-year-old executive leading an international company operating in over 30 countries. I worked around the clock, traveled internationally every week, and had everything: Money, status, and power.
And yet, I was deeply unhappy.
Not the kind of unhappiness you feel when something doesn't go your way. The kind of unhappiness you feel when you know in your core that this isn't where you're meant to be.
I hear similar stories surprisingly often in my mentoring sessions: "I remember the moment I realized I had built a career I no longer wanted. There I was, 42 years old, with an executive title, good salary, and an overwhelming feeling that this wasn't my life anymore."
Leaving an established career to build something new requires the same approach as when we Nordics prepare for winter mountains: thorough preparation, respect for the elements, and willingness to push your own boundaries. As a former executive with 25 years of international experience and now a mentor to hundreds of professionals, I've guided many through this transition.
When My Body Said Stop: My Own Path to Change
For me, it was a health crisis that forced me to stop.
An unexpected trip to the emergency room with blood pressure through the roof and uncontrollable nosebleeds gave me a brutal reminder: "Who the fuck do you think you are to tell me that I HAVE to stay here overnight? I do NOT have time for this!"
But this time, the anger was different. I couldn't just ignore it and take back control. My body had taken command, and it sent a clear message: "Stay."
For once, I actually listened. There in the hospital, surrounded by beeping machines and with my nose packed with bandages, I realized that something had to change. I needed a new direction in life, one that would give me the depth and meaning I was missing.
Discover How Decisions Shape Your Freedom: Read Christer's Decision Framework
Why Are More and More Nordic Professionals Considering Career Changes?
After the pandemic, I've observed a noticeable increase in people seeking guidance for career changes. Statistics confirm this---in 2024, more than one in four Nordic employees considered changing career paths, not just jobs. It's no longer just about higher salaries, but about meaning, balance, and personal growth.
Many reach a point in their 30s, 40s, or 50s where their body and mind signal it's time for a change. Sometimes these signals come gradually as growing dissatisfaction. Other times they arrive dramatically through a health crisis.
5 Clear Signs You're Ready for a Career Change
Many clients come to me with a feeling that "something needs to change," but are uncertain if a career change is the right path. Here are five signs I see in those who are ready for a major change:
- You wake up dreading work. Not just a bad day or week, but months of feeling that something important is missing.
- You're bored with your field. Even projects that used to energize you now feel routine and uninspiring.
- Your personal values no longer align with your work life. This is particularly relevant in Nordic countries where we highly value work-life balance.
- You frequently think about alternative careers, and these thoughts give you energy and enthusiasm.
- Your body is sending warning signals. Sleep problems, digestive issues, constant fatigue, headaches, or high blood pressure could be your body's way of communicating.
As Anna (38), a former marketing director in the financial sector told me: "I had a well-paid position with prestige, but I felt I had to force myself out of bed every Monday. It was a clear signal I could no longer ignore."
*Note: The names of clients have been changed to protect their privacy.
The Inevitable Thresholds – Handling Fear and Uncertainty
"What if I fail?" "Am I too old to start over?" "Will I be happier, or just exchange one set of problems for another?"
These questions plague almost everyone considering a career change---including those who later succeed. The fear isn't just normal, it's necessary. It forces you to be thorough in your preparations.
But there's another question that's even more powerful, yet rarely asked: "What if I succeed?" This perspective shift can be transformative. When we focus on the possibility of success rather than failure, new pathways suddenly become visible.
Personality and Career Choices: What Works for You?
In my free consultation sessions, we often start by exploring your personality type. This gives us a solid foundation for finding a career that suits you perfectly.
Over the years, I've seen how different types of people handle career changes in completely different ways. This is based on Hippocrates' four basic temperaments - knowledge that has proven useful for over 2,500 years:
Sanguine personalities seek joy and social connection. They thrive in creative jobs where they can interact with people. When changing careers, they succeed best when they can test various possibilities and channel their enthusiasm.
Choleric personalities (like myself) want control and leadership. They see the big picture and make quick decisions. During career transitions, they need concrete plans and clear goals to feel they're making progress.
Melancholic personalities strive for perfection. They fit well in roles requiring accuracy and thoroughness. When changing careers, they need detailed plans and thorough research before taking the leap.
Phlegmatic personalities seek peace and harmony. They're reliable but may struggle with making major decisions. They need plenty of time and small steps to feel secure about the change.
In a free conversation with me, we can explore which type you are and how you can use this knowledge to find a career that energizes rather than drains you.
How to Prepare for a Safe Career Change in the Nordic Job Market
The Nordic job market gives us unique advantages but also has its peculiarities. Here's my step-by-step approach for a successful career change:
1. Map Your Transferable Skills
In Nordic countries, deep expertise is highly valued, but we're often too modest when it comes to communicating our breadth. Start by identifying which skills you've developed that can be applied in other contexts:
- Project management
- Strategic thinking
- Communication abilities
- Analytical skills
- Relational competence
2. Explore the Hidden Opportunities in the Nordic Job Market
70% of positions in Nordic countries are never filled through open advertisements. My advice:
- Activate your network -- in Nordic countries, we're only 1-2 contacts away from almost any industry
- Participate in industry-specific events
- Use LinkedIn strategically -- post professionally relevant content for your desired industry
- Consider shorter internships or project work to get your foot in the door
3. Test Your New Career Path Before Fully Committing
A client, Marcus (45), wanted to transition from IT management to becoming a wine producer. Instead of investing immediately, he took a summer job at a vineyard, took relevant courses part-time, and validated his interest before taking the leap. This is particularly relevant in the Nordic context where we value thoroughness and risk minimization.
My Own Dream: Sailing Around the World
Through my own self-reflection, I unearthed a forgotten dream -- one I had carried for a long time without giving it space. I wanted to sail around the world.
In retrospect, I realize this dream was less about the sailing itself and more about freedom and a fresh start. It was a need to break free from all the external expectations I had tried to live up to and find my authentic self again.
When I visualized myself standing on deck as I left the home port, I felt a deep sense of relief and freedom. That mental image of a new beginning helped me through many tough times. Freedom is one of my core needs, and that dream reminds me of what truly matters to me.
Nordic Values That Support Career Change
Our Nordic culture gives us unique advantages when it comes to career change:
- Lifelong learning - our educational systems facilitate continuous competence development
- Trust and autonomy - employers often provide space for employees to develop new areas of responsibility
- Work-life balance - the opportunity to explore new career paths without sacrificing family life
- Innovation culture - openness to new ideas and approaches
In my work, I define freedom as having time, money, courage, and health to do what you want, when you want. This definition of freedom resonates particularly well with Nordic professionals who value quality of life above career advancement for its own sake. Our culture's emphasis on work-life balance provides fertile ground for creating this kind of freedom through thoughtful career choices.
A Successful Career Change: Anders' Journey from Consultant to School Principal
A career change doesn't happen overnight. With the right mindset and strategic approach, however, you can make significant changes within a reasonable timeframe. Anders' story clearly demonstrates this.
Anders (42) had built a 15-year career as a management consultant in an international company. Despite good pay and status, he felt something was missing -- meaning and direct impact on others' lives.
"I had always been fascinated by education, but thought my career path was set," he says. "Christer helped me see how my experience with change management, strategic planning, and team development was actually highly relevant for the education sector."
Through an 18-month process:
- We identified his transferable skills
- Built bridges to the education sector through strategic networking
- Supplemented with necessary formal qualifications
- Developed a communication strategy that highlighted the relevance of his leadership experience
Today, Anders leads a private school where he combines his consulting experience with a passion for education. "It doesn't feel like I'm starting over, but that I'm applying everything I've learned in a more meaningful way," he says.
Creative Freedom: Truls' Path from Burnout to Balanced Success
"I was running on empty for years, constantly putting out fires for clients while ignoring the one burning inside me," says Truls (43). "As creative director at a small agency, I was working 70-hour weeks, missing my kids' important moments, and feeling my health deteriorate."
With a mortgage and family responsibilities, Truls' career transformation seemed risky. Yet through a methodical approach, he rebuilt his professional life around his true priorities:
- He identified how his visual storytelling abilities could be applied to subjects he genuinely cared about
- Started a small side project documenting local wine producers, combining his passion for storytelling and wine
- Gradually reduced his hours at the agency while building relationships in the wine industry
- Used his project management expertise to structure his new business with clear boundaries for work hours
"The turning point came when I realized I was teaching my children that success meant sacrificing your health and happiness," Truls reflects. "Now I run my own creative agency with strict work boundaries, focus on projects I'm passionate about including wine documentaries, and have dinner with my family almost every night."
Today, Truls leads a thriving boutique creative studio with a carefully selected client list. He even bikes to work now rather than commuting to a different city (during Norway's spring and summer months, of course). "I actually earn more now than when I was burning myself out, but the real wealth is measured in morning rides, family dinners, and work that energizes rather than depletes me."
Mentor or Career Coach – Which Do You Need?
A question I often get is the difference between a career coach and a mentor. In the Nordic context, the difference is significant:
Career Coach:
- Primarily focuses on the job search process
- Helps with CV, applications, and interview techniques
- Provides general advice on career development
Mentor (like me):
- Shares personal experience from similar career transitions
- Provides access to networks and insider information about industries
- Challenges assumptions and contributes perspectives based on long experience
- Offers long-term support throughout the entire change process
For a major career change, you often need both -- technical skills for job searching and strategic guidance from someone who has walked the path before you.
Practical Steps to Get Started with Your Career Change
- Think about what you really want - Download my guide "7 Questions to Ask Before Changing Your Life's Direction" at the bottom of this page
- Explore different possibilities - Talk to people in industries you're curious about, get a glimpse of their daily work life
- Identify what you're missing - What skills do you need to learn to be competitive in the new industry?
- Create a realistic plan - Expect that a career change takes between six months and two years, depending on how significant the change is
- Save up some extra funds - Even with good social security systems in Nordic countries, a financial buffer gives you more freedom to maneuver
- Take your health seriously - Don't wait until your body forces you to stop, as it did for me
Are You Ready to Move from Security to Something More Fulfilling?
I see it time and again: The biggest difference between those who just dream about career change and those who actually implement it is not talent or network -- it's determination, discipline, and a methodical approach.
When I was lying in the hospital with bandages in my nose, I understood it was time to find a new way forward. I had always done things my way; I had always been stubborn. Now I felt a strong need for something more meaningful. To find out what I really wanted. I needed to dare to be different -- to put myself at the center, to do what felt right for me, to follow my heart and intuition. Not just do what I thought others expected of me.
You don't need to walk this path alone. In my downloadable guide "7 Questions to Ask Before Changing Your Life's Direction," you'll get the same reflection tools I use with clients who have completed successful career changes -- even when the odds seemed against them. And in our complimentary consultation, I can share my Freedom Morning Formula that has helped hundreds of professionals build daily habits that support their most important life goals.
What you'll discover in this free guide:
- Clarity on what you truly want from your life and career
- Practical methods to identify which career paths align with your personality
- Strategies to overcome fear and uncertainty during major life transitions
- A framework for evaluating opportunities based on your deepest priorities
- The exact reflection process I use with clients who successfully transform their lives
Preview: Two powerful questions from the guide:
- "What kind of life are you truly seeking to create?" This foundational question helps you look beyond job titles to the lifestyle, freedom and meaning you desire.
- "Who do you want to interact with daily?" The people around us shape our experience profoundly, yet few consider this when planning their career.
To Your Success!
Christer Johnsen is a mentor for leaders and professionals seeking to align their work with their deepest life priorities. With 25 years of international leadership experience, he has guided hundreds of clients through successful life and career transformations in the Nordic market.
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Career Change in Your 30s-50s: How to Do It Safely and Correctly
"Who the fuck do you think you are?"
This thought frequently struck me as a 34-year-old executive leading an international company operating in over 30 countries. I worked around the clock, traveled internationally every week, and had everything: Money, status, and power.
And yet, I was deeply unhappy.
Not the kind of unhappiness you feel when something doesn't go your way. The kind of unhappiness you feel when you know in your core that this isn't where you're meant to be.
I hear similar stories surprisingly often in my mentoring sessions: "I remember the moment I realized I had built a career I no longer wanted. There I was, 42 years old, with an executive title, good salary, and an overwhelming feeling that this wasn't my life anymore."
Leaving an established career to build something new requires the same approach as when we Nordics prepare for winter mountains: thorough preparation, respect for the elements, and willingness to push your own boundaries. As a former executive with 25 years of international experience and now a mentor to hundreds of professionals, I've guided many through this transition.
When My Body Said Stop: My Own Path to Change
For me, it was a health crisis that forced me to stop.
An unexpected trip to the emergency room with blood pressure through the roof and uncontrollable nosebleeds gave me a brutal reminder: "Who the fuck do you think you are to tell me that I HAVE to stay here overnight? I do NOT have time for this!"
But this time, the anger was different. I couldn't just ignore it and take back control. My body had taken command, and it sent a clear message: "Stay."
For once, I actually listened. There in the hospital, surrounded by beeping machines and with my nose packed with bandages, I realized that something had to change. I needed a new direction in life, one that would give me the depth and meaning I was missing.
Discover How Decisions Shape Your Freedom: Read Christer's Decision Framework
Why Are More and More Nordic Professionals Considering Career Changes?
After the pandemic, I've observed a noticeable increase in people seeking guidance for career changes. Statistics confirm this---in 2024, more than one in four Nordic employees considered changing career paths, not just jobs. It's no longer just about higher salaries, but about meaning, balance, and personal growth.
Many reach a point in their 30s, 40s, or 50s where their body and mind signal it's time for a change. Sometimes these signals come gradually as growing dissatisfaction. Other times they arrive dramatically through a health crisis.
5 Clear Signs You're Ready for a Career Change
Many clients come to me with a feeling that "something needs to change," but are uncertain if a career change is the right path. Here are five signs I see in those who are ready for a major change:
- You wake up dreading work. Not just a bad day or week, but months of feeling that something important is missing.
- You're bored with your field. Even projects that used to energize you now feel routine and uninspiring.
- Your personal values no longer align with your work life. This is particularly relevant in Nordic countries where we highly value work-life balance.
- You frequently think about alternative careers, and these thoughts give you energy and enthusiasm.
- Your body is sending warning signals. Sleep problems, digestive issues, constant fatigue, headaches, or high blood pressure could be your body's way of communicating.
As Anna (38), a former marketing director in the financial sector told me: "I had a well-paid position with prestige, but I felt I had to force myself out of bed every Monday. It was a clear signal I could no longer ignore."
*Note: The names of clients have been changed to protect their privacy.
The Inevitable Thresholds – Handling Fear and Uncertainty
"What if I fail?" "Am I too old to start over?" "Will I be happier, or just exchange one set of problems for another?"
These questions plague almost everyone considering a career change---including those who later succeed. The fear isn't just normal, it's necessary. It forces you to be thorough in your preparations.
But there's another question that's even more powerful, yet rarely asked: "What if I succeed?" This perspective shift can be transformative. When we focus on the possibility of success rather than failure, new pathways suddenly become visible.
Personality and Career Choices: What Works for You?
In my free consultation sessions, we often start by exploring your personality type. This gives us a solid foundation for finding a career that suits you perfectly.
Over the years, I've seen how different types of people handle career changes in completely different ways. This is based on Hippocrates' four basic temperaments - knowledge that has proven useful for over 2,500 years:
Sanguine personalities seek joy and social connection. They thrive in creative jobs where they can interact with people. When changing careers, they succeed best when they can test various possibilities and channel their enthusiasm.
Choleric personalities (like myself) want control and leadership. They see the big picture and make quick decisions. During career transitions, they need concrete plans and clear goals to feel they're making progress.
Melancholic personalities strive for perfection. They fit well in roles requiring accuracy and thoroughness. When changing careers, they need detailed plans and thorough research before taking the leap.
Phlegmatic personalities seek peace and harmony. They're reliable but may struggle with making major decisions. They need plenty of time and small steps to feel secure about the change.
In a free conversation with me, we can explore which type you are and how you can use this knowledge to find a career that energizes rather than drains you.
How to Prepare for a Safe Career Change in the Nordic Job Market
The Nordic job market gives us unique advantages but also has its peculiarities. Here's my step-by-step approach for a successful career change:
1. Map Your Transferable Skills
In Nordic countries, deep expertise is highly valued, but we're often too modest when it comes to communicating our breadth. Start by identifying which skills you've developed that can be applied in other contexts:
- Project management
- Strategic thinking
- Communication abilities
- Analytical skills
- Relational competence
2. Explore the Hidden Opportunities in the Nordic Job Market
70% of positions in Nordic countries are never filled through open advertisements. My advice:
- Activate your network -- in Nordic countries, we're only 1-2 contacts away from almost any industry
- Participate in industry-specific events
- Use LinkedIn strategically -- post professionally relevant content for your desired industry
- Consider shorter internships or project work to get your foot in the door
3. Test Your New Career Path Before Fully Committing
A client, Marcus (45), wanted to transition from IT management to becoming a wine producer. Instead of investing immediately, he took a summer job at a vineyard, took relevant courses part-time, and validated his interest before taking the leap. This is particularly relevant in the Nordic context where we value thoroughness and risk minimization.
My Own Dream: Sailing Around the World
Through my own self-reflection, I unearthed a forgotten dream -- one I had carried for a long time without giving it space. I wanted to sail around the world.
In retrospect, I realize this dream was less about the sailing itself and more about freedom and a fresh start. It was a need to break free from all the external expectations I had tried to live up to and find my authentic self again.
When I visualized myself standing on deck as I left the home port, I felt a deep sense of relief and freedom. That mental image of a new beginning helped me through many tough times. Freedom is one of my core needs, and that dream reminds me of what truly matters to me.
Nordic Values That Support Career Change
Our Nordic culture gives us unique advantages when it comes to career change:
- Lifelong learning - our educational systems facilitate continuous competence development
- Trust and autonomy - employers often provide space for employees to develop new areas of responsibility
- Work-life balance - the opportunity to explore new career paths without sacrificing family life
- Innovation culture - openness to new ideas and approaches
In my work, I define freedom as having time, money, courage, and health to do what you want, when you want. This definition of freedom resonates particularly well with Nordic professionals who value quality of life above career advancement for its own sake. Our culture's emphasis on work-life balance provides fertile ground for creating this kind of freedom through thoughtful career choices.
A Successful Career Change: Anders' Journey from Consultant to School Principal
A career change doesn't happen overnight. With the right mindset and strategic approach, however, you can make significant changes within a reasonable timeframe. Anders' story clearly demonstrates this.
Anders (42) had built a 15-year career as a management consultant in an international company. Despite good pay and status, he felt something was missing -- meaning and direct impact on others' lives.
"I had always been fascinated by education, but thought my career path was set," he says. "Christer helped me see how my experience with change management, strategic planning, and team development was actually highly relevant for the education sector."
Through an 18-month process:
- We identified his transferable skills
- Built bridges to the education sector through strategic networking
- Supplemented with necessary formal qualifications
- Developed a communication strategy that highlighted the relevance of his leadership experience
Today, Anders leads a private school where he combines his consulting experience with a passion for education. "It doesn't feel like I'm starting over, but that I'm applying everything I've learned in a more meaningful way," he says.
Creative Freedom: Truls' Path from Burnout to Balanced Success
"I was running on empty for years, constantly putting out fires for clients while ignoring the one burning inside me," says Truls (43). "As creative director at a small agency, I was working 70-hour weeks, missing my kids' important moments, and feeling my health deteriorate."
With a mortgage and family responsibilities, Truls' career transformation seemed risky. Yet through a methodical approach, he rebuilt his professional life around his true priorities:
- He identified how his visual storytelling abilities could be applied to subjects he genuinely cared about
- Started a small side project documenting local wine producers, combining his passion for storytelling and wine
- Gradually reduced his hours at the agency while building relationships in the wine industry
- Used his project management expertise to structure his new business with clear boundaries for work hours
"The turning point came when I realized I was teaching my children that success meant sacrificing your health and happiness," Truls reflects. "Now I run my own creative agency with strict work boundaries, focus on projects I'm passionate about including wine documentaries, and have dinner with my family almost every night."
Today, Truls leads a thriving boutique creative studio with a carefully selected client list. He even bikes to work now rather than commuting to a different city (during Norway's spring and summer months, of course). "I actually earn more now than when I was burning myself out, but the real wealth is measured in morning rides, family dinners, and work that energizes rather than depletes me."
Mentor or Career Coach – Which Do You Need?
A question I often get is the difference between a career coach and a mentor. In the Nordic context, the difference is significant:
Career Coach:
- Primarily focuses on the job search process
- Helps with CV, applications, and interview techniques
- Provides general advice on career development
Mentor (like me):
- Shares personal experience from similar career transitions
- Provides access to networks and insider information about industries
- Challenges assumptions and contributes perspectives based on long experience
- Offers long-term support throughout the entire change process
For a major career change, you often need both -- technical skills for job searching and strategic guidance from someone who has walked the path before you.
Practical Steps to Get Started with Your Career Change
- Think about what you really want - Download my guide "7 Questions to Ask Before Changing Your Life's Direction" at the bottom of this page
- Explore different possibilities - Talk to people in industries you're curious about, get a glimpse of their daily work life
- Identify what you're missing - What skills do you need to learn to be competitive in the new industry?
- Create a realistic plan - Expect that a career change takes between six months and two years, depending on how significant the change is
- Save up some extra funds - Even with good social security systems in Nordic countries, a financial buffer gives you more freedom to maneuver
- Take your health seriously - Don't wait until your body forces you to stop, as it did for me
Are You Ready to Move from Security to Something More Fulfilling?
I see it time and again: The biggest difference between those who just dream about career change and those who actually implement it is not talent or network -- it's determination, discipline, and a methodical approach.
When I was lying in the hospital with bandages in my nose, I understood it was time to find a new way forward. I had always done things my way; I had always been stubborn. Now I felt a strong need for something more meaningful. To find out what I really wanted. I needed to dare to be different -- to put myself at the center, to do what felt right for me, to follow my heart and intuition. Not just do what I thought others expected of me.
You don't need to walk this path alone. In my downloadable guide "7 Questions to Ask Before Changing Your Life's Direction," you'll get the same reflection tools I use with clients who have completed successful career changes -- even when the odds seemed against them. And in our complimentary consultation, I can share my Freedom Morning Formula that has helped hundreds of professionals build daily habits that support their most important life goals.
What you'll discover in this free guide:
- Clarity on what you truly want from your life and career
- Practical methods to identify which career paths align with your personality
- Strategies to overcome fear and uncertainty during major life transitions
- A framework for evaluating opportunities based on your deepest priorities
- The exact reflection process I use with clients who successfully transform their lives
Preview: Two powerful questions from the guide:
- "What kind of life are you truly seeking to create?" This foundational question helps you look beyond job titles to the lifestyle, freedom and meaning you desire.
- "Who do you want to interact with daily?" The people around us shape our experience profoundly, yet few consider this when planning their career.
To Your Success!
Christer Johnsen is a mentor for leaders and professionals seeking to align their work with their deepest life priorities. With 25 years of international leadership experience, he has guided hundreds of clients through successful life and career transformations in the Nordic market.
"Christer is very personal and he also sees the whole person. So when he talks to me, it is quite different. He does not have a mission, like if you work for a leader or company that wants to go somewhere, he invests all of this time with you."
— Pia
Designer
Career Change in Your 30s-50s: How to Do It Safely and Correctly
"Who the fuck do you think you are?"
This thought frequently struck me as a 34-year-old executive leading an international company operating in over 30 countries. I worked around the clock, traveled internationally every week, and had everything: Money, status, and power.
And yet, I was deeply unhappy.
Not the kind of unhappiness you feel when something doesn't go your way. The kind of unhappiness you feel when you know in your core that this isn't where you're meant to be.
I hear similar stories surprisingly often in my mentoring sessions: "I remember the moment I realized I had built a career I no longer wanted. There I was, 42 years old, with an executive title, good salary, and an overwhelming feeling that this wasn't my life anymore."
Leaving an established career to build something new requires the same approach as when we Nordics prepare for winter mountains: thorough preparation, respect for the elements, and willingness to push your own boundaries. As a former executive with 25 years of international experience and now a mentor to hundreds of professionals, I've guided many through this transition.
When My Body Said Stop: My Own Path to Change
For me, it was a health crisis that forced me to stop.
An unexpected trip to the emergency room with blood pressure through the roof and uncontrollable nosebleeds gave me a brutal reminder: "Who the fuck do you think you are to tell me that I HAVE to stay here overnight? I do NOT have time for this!"
But this time, the anger was different. I couldn't just ignore it and take back control. My body had taken command, and it sent a clear message: "Stay."
For once, I actually listened. There in the hospital, surrounded by beeping machines and with my nose packed with bandages, I realized that something had to change. I needed a new direction in life, one that would give me the depth and meaning I was missing.
Discover How Decisions Shape Your Freedom: Read Christer's Decision Framework
Why Are More and More Nordic Professionals Considering Career Changes?
After the pandemic, I've observed a noticeable increase in people seeking guidance for career changes. Statistics confirm this---in 2024, more than one in four Nordic employees considered changing career paths, not just jobs. It's no longer just about higher salaries, but about meaning, balance, and personal growth.
Many reach a point in their 30s, 40s, or 50s where their body and mind signal it's time for a change. Sometimes these signals come gradually as growing dissatisfaction. Other times they arrive dramatically through a health crisis.
5 Clear Signs You're Ready for a Career Change
Many clients come to me with a feeling that "something needs to change," but are uncertain if a career change is the right path. Here are five signs I see in those who are ready for a major change:
- You wake up dreading work. Not just a bad day or week, but months of feeling that something important is missing.
- You're bored with your field. Even projects that used to energize you now feel routine and uninspiring.
- Your personal values no longer align with your work life. This is particularly relevant in Nordic countries where we highly value work-life balance.
- You frequently think about alternative careers, and these thoughts give you energy and enthusiasm.
- Your body is sending warning signals. Sleep problems, digestive issues, constant fatigue, headaches, or high blood pressure could be your body's way of communicating.
As Anna (38), a former marketing director in the financial sector told me: "I had a well-paid position with prestige, but I felt I had to force myself out of bed every Monday. It was a clear signal I could no longer ignore."
*Note: The names of clients have been changed to protect their privacy.
The Inevitable Thresholds – Handling Fear and Uncertainty
"What if I fail?" "Am I too old to start over?" "Will I be happier, or just exchange one set of problems for another?"
These questions plague almost everyone considering a career change---including those who later succeed. The fear isn't just normal, it's necessary. It forces you to be thorough in your preparations.
But there's another question that's even more powerful, yet rarely asked: "What if I succeed?" This perspective shift can be transformative. When we focus on the possibility of success rather than failure, new pathways suddenly become visible.
Personality and Career Choices: What Works for You?
In my free consultation sessions, we often start by exploring your personality type. This gives us a solid foundation for finding a career that suits you perfectly.
Over the years, I've seen how different types of people handle career changes in completely different ways. This is based on Hippocrates' four basic temperaments - knowledge that has proven useful for over 2,500 years:
Sanguine personalities seek joy and social connection. They thrive in creative jobs where they can interact with people. When changing careers, they succeed best when they can test various possibilities and channel their enthusiasm.
Choleric personalities (like myself) want control and leadership. They see the big picture and make quick decisions. During career transitions, they need concrete plans and clear goals to feel they're making progress.
Melancholic personalities strive for perfection. They fit well in roles requiring accuracy and thoroughness. When changing careers, they need detailed plans and thorough research before taking the leap.
Phlegmatic personalities seek peace and harmony. They're reliable but may struggle with making major decisions. They need plenty of time and small steps to feel secure about the change.
In a free conversation with me, we can explore which type you are and how you can use this knowledge to find a career that energizes rather than drains you.
How to Prepare for a Safe Career Change in the Nordic Job Market
The Nordic job market gives us unique advantages but also has its peculiarities. Here's my step-by-step approach for a successful career change:
1. Map Your Transferable Skills
In Nordic countries, deep expertise is highly valued, but we're often too modest when it comes to communicating our breadth. Start by identifying which skills you've developed that can be applied in other contexts:
- Project management
- Strategic thinking
- Communication abilities
- Analytical skills
- Relational competence
2. Explore the Hidden Opportunities in the Nordic Job Market
70% of positions in Nordic countries are never filled through open advertisements. My advice:
- Activate your network -- in Nordic countries, we're only 1-2 contacts away from almost any industry
- Participate in industry-specific events
- Use LinkedIn strategically -- post professionally relevant content for your desired industry
- Consider shorter internships or project work to get your foot in the door
3. Test Your New Career Path Before Fully Committing
A client, Marcus (45), wanted to transition from IT management to becoming a wine producer. Instead of investing immediately, he took a summer job at a vineyard, took relevant courses part-time, and validated his interest before taking the leap. This is particularly relevant in the Nordic context where we value thoroughness and risk minimization.
My Own Dream: Sailing Around the World
Through my own self-reflection, I unearthed a forgotten dream -- one I had carried for a long time without giving it space. I wanted to sail around the world.
In retrospect, I realize this dream was less about the sailing itself and more about freedom and a fresh start. It was a need to break free from all the external expectations I had tried to live up to and find my authentic self again.
When I visualized myself standing on deck as I left the home port, I felt a deep sense of relief and freedom. That mental image of a new beginning helped me through many tough times. Freedom is one of my core needs, and that dream reminds me of what truly matters to me.
Nordic Values That Support Career Change
Our Nordic culture gives us unique advantages when it comes to career change:
- Lifelong learning - our educational systems facilitate continuous competence development
- Trust and autonomy - employers often provide space for employees to develop new areas of responsibility
- Work-life balance - the opportunity to explore new career paths without sacrificing family life
- Innovation culture - openness to new ideas and approaches
In my work, I define freedom as having time, money, courage, and health to do what you want, when you want. This definition of freedom resonates particularly well with Nordic professionals who value quality of life above career advancement for its own sake. Our culture's emphasis on work-life balance provides fertile ground for creating this kind of freedom through thoughtful career choices.
A Successful Career Change: Anders' Journey from Consultant to School Principal
A career change doesn't happen overnight. With the right mindset and strategic approach, however, you can make significant changes within a reasonable timeframe. Anders' story clearly demonstrates this.
Anders (42) had built a 15-year career as a management consultant in an international company. Despite good pay and status, he felt something was missing -- meaning and direct impact on others' lives.
"I had always been fascinated by education, but thought my career path was set," he says. "Christer helped me see how my experience with change management, strategic planning, and team development was actually highly relevant for the education sector."
Through an 18-month process:
- We identified his transferable skills
- Built bridges to the education sector through strategic networking
- Supplemented with necessary formal qualifications
- Developed a communication strategy that highlighted the relevance of his leadership experience
Today, Anders leads a private school where he combines his consulting experience with a passion for education. "It doesn't feel like I'm starting over, but that I'm applying everything I've learned in a more meaningful way," he says.
Creative Freedom: Truls' Path from Burnout to Balanced Success
"I was running on empty for years, constantly putting out fires for clients while ignoring the one burning inside me," says Truls (43). "As creative director at a small agency, I was working 70-hour weeks, missing my kids' important moments, and feeling my health deteriorate."
With a mortgage and family responsibilities, Truls' career transformation seemed risky. Yet through a methodical approach, he rebuilt his professional life around his true priorities:
- He identified how his visual storytelling abilities could be applied to subjects he genuinely cared about
- Started a small side project documenting local wine producers, combining his passion for storytelling and wine
- Gradually reduced his hours at the agency while building relationships in the wine industry
- Used his project management expertise to structure his new business with clear boundaries for work hours
"The turning point came when I realized I was teaching my children that success meant sacrificing your health and happiness," Truls reflects. "Now I run my own creative agency with strict work boundaries, focus on projects I'm passionate about including wine documentaries, and have dinner with my family almost every night."
Today, Truls leads a thriving boutique creative studio with a carefully selected client list. He even bikes to work now rather than commuting to a different city (during Norway's spring and summer months, of course). "I actually earn more now than when I was burning myself out, but the real wealth is measured in morning rides, family dinners, and work that energizes rather than depletes me."
Mentor or Career Coach – Which Do You Need?
A question I often get is the difference between a career coach and a mentor. In the Nordic context, the difference is significant:
Career Coach:
- Primarily focuses on the job search process
- Helps with CV, applications, and interview techniques
- Provides general advice on career development
Mentor (like me):
- Shares personal experience from similar career transitions
- Provides access to networks and insider information about industries
- Challenges assumptions and contributes perspectives based on long experience
- Offers long-term support throughout the entire change process
For a major career change, you often need both -- technical skills for job searching and strategic guidance from someone who has walked the path before you.
Practical Steps to Get Started with Your Career Change
- Think about what you really want - Download my guide "7 Questions to Ask Before Changing Your Life's Direction" at the bottom of this page
- Explore different possibilities - Talk to people in industries you're curious about, get a glimpse of their daily work life
- Identify what you're missing - What skills do you need to learn to be competitive in the new industry?
- Create a realistic plan - Expect that a career change takes between six months and two years, depending on how significant the change is
- Save up some extra funds - Even with good social security systems in Nordic countries, a financial buffer gives you more freedom to maneuver
- Take your health seriously - Don't wait until your body forces you to stop, as it did for me
Are You Ready to Move from Security to Something More Fulfilling?
I see it time and again: The biggest difference between those who just dream about career change and those who actually implement it is not talent or network -- it's determination, discipline, and a methodical approach.
When I was lying in the hospital with bandages in my nose, I understood it was time to find a new way forward. I had always done things my way; I had always been stubborn. Now I felt a strong need for something more meaningful. To find out what I really wanted. I needed to dare to be different -- to put myself at the center, to do what felt right for me, to follow my heart and intuition. Not just do what I thought others expected of me.
You don't need to walk this path alone. In my downloadable guide "7 Questions to Ask Before Changing Your Life's Direction," you'll get the same reflection tools I use with clients who have completed successful career changes -- even when the odds seemed against them. And in our complimentary consultation, I can share my Freedom Morning Formula that has helped hundreds of professionals build daily habits that support their most important life goals.
What you'll discover in this free guide:
- Clarity on what you truly want from your life and career
- Practical methods to identify which career paths align with your personality
- Strategies to overcome fear and uncertainty during major life transitions
- A framework for evaluating opportunities based on your deepest priorities
- The exact reflection process I use with clients who successfully transform their lives
Preview: Two powerful questions from the guide:
- "What kind of life are you truly seeking to create?" This foundational question helps you look beyond job titles to the lifestyle, freedom and meaning you desire.
- "Who do you want to interact with daily?" The people around us shape our experience profoundly, yet few consider this when planning their career.
To Your Success!
Christer Johnsen is a mentor for leaders and professionals seeking to align their work with their deepest life priorities. With 25 years of international leadership experience, he has guided hundreds of clients through successful life and career transformations in the Nordic market.