Success Stories

“My enthusiasm had dwindled. It wasn't the job I'd first started.”

From Newspapers to Design Consultancy

Kathryn George's workplace was changing – and it felt soul-destroying. After seeking out support from a wide range of sources, she decided to strike out alone. Here, she shares why her shift has been an adventure and what she's learned along the way.

“My gut was screaming at me, ‘You have to do this.’”

From Nursing to Own Charity

Holly Penalver had always written off humanitarian work as a pipe dream. But when she saw a problem that needed fixing in the sector, she couldn't resist the challenge. Here, she shares why it's been a long and difficult transition, and why she can't imagine doing anything else.

“The corporate environment was stifling.”

From Banking to Helping Entrepreneurs

Ever feel that you're simply not cut out for the work you're in? Natalie Robinson had always wanted to run her own business, but didn't know where to start. Then, a week-long company retreat woke her up and propelled her into action. Here's her story.

“Doing the same thing every day really got to me – it wasn't what I wanted to do with my life.”

From Manager to Blacksmith

Ever long to ditch your computer and use your hands more? Leszek Sikon did. And though he's had a steep learning curve in terms of his confidence, he's used those natural instincts to move into work that finally feels good. Here's how he did it.

“I hated the politics, bureaucracy and red tape.”

From Agency to Own Business

What do you do when you can no longer stand the environment you work in? Lucy Gillions enjoyed her role, but felt stifled by everything that came with corporate life. So, she decided to branch out on her own. Here, she shares why not burning your bridges is a good idea (and why saying yes to everything probably isn't).

“I realised that the already-pressured environment would become even worse.”

From Higher Education to Own Business

With department budgets squeezed and a work–life balance that was difficult to manage, Dawn Morse decided to change direction. But rather than making a 180-degree shift, she used her existing skills to launch her own business. Here's how she did it.

“If there was ever a time to move, now was that time.”

From Financial Literacy to English

Brandon Brady enjoyed his job. But his prospects were limited, and besides, he was itching to see the world. So, when an opportunity to work abroad piqued his interest, he decided to grab it with both hands. Here's his story.

“Life's too short not to have a go at doing something I love.”

From Market Research to Catering

Karen Wigley could no longer muster enthusiasm for her work. So, she decided to turn her love of entertaining into a business she could feel proud of. Here she shares how she's combining a realistic attitude to money with something she truly enjoys.

“I wanted to have a go at creating something myself.”

From Law to Tech Start-up

Charlotte McMillan's light-bulb idea happened one morning in the shower. While starting her own business has been a big risk, now she's in the driving seat of something she feels passionate about. Here's how she did it.

“I became ashamed of my job, always trying to shorten or completely avoid the topic in conversation.”

From Corporate Life to Social Impact

Vera Frajtova realised that job-hopping wasn't going to solve her long-term job dissatisfaction. So, she decided to think outside the box. Now she's found her way to a sector where she's feeling inspired daily, and (after making a few adjustments) learned how to live and work in a new way. Here's her story.

Careershifters

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