This week marks the start of National Careers Week, a week is designed to highlight pathways into meaningful work for the next generation and open up conversations about skills, growth, and opportunities.

However, it's also a timely reminder for those who already find themselves on the career ladder that fulfilling careers don’t just happen by chance; they’re built through intentional choices, supportive environments, and in some cases, the confidence to take the next step.

According to a CNBC report on Resume Now’s international survey of 1,000 workers, 66% of workers have workrelated regrets across the U.K., U.S., France and Germany. The study highlights the top four regrets shaping the modern workforce - and each one tells an important story about what today’s professionals are really seeking in their careers.  

1. Not asking for a pay increase (60%)

A majority of workers say they regret not advocating for higher pay. For many, this isn’t just about money; it reflects a deeper issue: feeling undervalued or lacking the confidence to articulate their worth.

Advice: If you feel underrecognised, it may be time to rethink whether your current role offers the growth, autonomy and reward you deserve. At the SJP Academy, many career changers share that they wanted a path where their effort and impact are directly reflected in their longterm earning potential. A career in financial advice enables individuals to build their own success, supported by structured development and professional accreditation.

2. Not prioritising worklife balance (59%)

Nearly six in ten workers regret not protecting their personal time earlier in their career. Burnout, long hours and inflexible environments continue to be major drivers behind career change.

Advice: Worklife balance isn’t a luxury; it’s a foundation for longterm performance. Before assuming that balance is impossible, evaluate whether your industry allows for it. A significant proportion of people join the Academy specifically for the potential to shape a career that reflects their priorities - freedom, flexibility, and a more human-centred way of working, particularly for those looking to become business owners.  

3. Staying at a job too long (58%)

One of the strongest themes in the research is regret caused by inaction. More people regret staying in the wrong job than leaving it.  

Staying too long often leads to stagnation: limited progression, low satisfaction, and missed opportunities to develop new skills.

Advice: If you’ve been telling yourself “maybe next year,” consider whether that delay is helping you or holding you back. The SJP Academy frequently supports midcareer professionals who say their only regret is not making the transition sooner — especially once they reconnect with meaningful, peoplefocused work.

4. Not negotiating salary when starting a new job (58%)

Starting a new role without negotiating pay is another widespread regret. Failing to negotiate doesn’t just affect the first year’s income - it can shape longterm earning trajectories.  

Advice: Negotiation can be uncomfortable, but it’s often a reflection of self-belief. If a career doesn’t allow you to confidently advocate for yourself, or if the structure limits your financial progression, it may be worth exploring a more entrepreneurial path. Becoming a financial adviser offers one of the rare opportunities to build an income aligned with your expertise, client relationships and ambition.

What these regrets tell us - and how career changers can respond

Across all four regrets, a consistent pattern emerges:  

  • People wish they had taken action earlier.  
  • They regret not choosing roles that align with their values.
  • They crave work with purpose, autonomy and progression.

For many, these reflections are the catalyst to explore a new direction, one where they can take control of their development, make a real impact in people’s lives, and build a sustainable, rewarding career.

That’s why National Careers Week is so important. It encourages people to look honestly at where they are now - and where they want to be.

At the St. James’s Place Financial Adviser Academy, we support career changers from all backgrounds to build meaningful futures in financial advice. If you’re reassessing your career, your priorities, or the legacy you want to create, this might be the moment to explore a new path.

After all, the biggest regret isn’t choosing the wrong direction, it’s not choosing at all.

Your career, your conversation.

If you're interested in finding our more about our Academy programme, take the first step now: Apply to become an adviser today or request more information.