Changing career isn't just about switching jobs - it often means challenging your identity, your routines, and your comfort zones. It brings up questions about money, purpose, timing, and self-belief. But behind all those questions, is one in particular: "What if...?"
So if you’re hovering on the edge of that very same question, this article is for you. We’re breaking down the 7 most common reasons people don’t change career - and practical advice to help you navigate your anxiety to come to the right answer for you.
Because sometimes, the only thing standing between you and a more fulfilling future, is a story you’ve been telling yourself.
1. Fear of the Unknown
What it sounds like: “I don't even know what I want to do!" “What if it’s worse than what I’m doing now?”
Top Tip: Fear thrives in ambiguity. Start small - research new industries, talk to people already in the roles you’re curious about, or shadow someone if you can. The more you know, the less intimidating the unknown becomes. Clarity builds confidence. If you do some research and don't like what you find, you can also gain confidence in your current role, knowing there's nothing better out there.
2. Financial Concerns
What it sounds like: “I can’t afford to start over.” “Will I have to take a pay cut?”
Top Tip: Career change doesn’t always mean going backwards financially - but it can mean a short-term trade-off for long-term gain. Create a financial plan that supports your transition, explore training or apprenticeships with financial support (like SJP’s), and talk to a financial adviser if needed. You don’t need to leap without a safety net.
3. Feeling Too Old or Too Far Along
What it sounds like: “I’ve spent 20 years in this field, it's too late now.”
Top Tip: Your experience is an asset, not a barrier. The skills, wisdom, and resilience you've built are often highly transferable. Today’s employers (and clients) value emotional intelligence, life experience, and maturity as much as technical skills - particularly in people-focused professions like financial advice.
4. Lack of Confidence
What it sounds like: “I’m not qualified.” “What if I fail?"
Top Tip: Imposter syndrome is common when stepping into new territory. Instead of focusing on what you lack, focus on what you bring. Identify your transferable skills (communication, leadership, sales, problem-solving), and take upskilling opportunities through training programmes or professional networks.
The SJP Academy, for example, spends several terms teaching you the soft skills needed to become a financial adviser, encouraging people to complete their exams before they join to fast-track their success and focus on chasing on the confidence-boosting element of CAS qualification in term 2 (Competent Adviser Status).
5. Social or Family Pressure
What it sounds like: “My friends don't get it.” "Will my family support my decision?"
Top Tip: Ultimately, you’re the one living your life, not them. While it’s important to listen to those close to you, especially your family, your career needs to work for you. Try to involve supportive people in your thinking - and remember that people often come around once they see you're serious and thriving.
It is important to consider those who might be affected by your career change, like your immediate family, so involve them in the conversation and invite them to get to know the ins and outs of the different opportunities you're exploring.
Take your time. The right places won't pressure you into a decision and they'll support you as best as they can to help you make the right choice for you and your family, whatever that might be.
6. Overwhelm and Decision Paralysis
What it sounds like: “I don’t know where to start.” “There are too many options.”
Top Tip: You don’t need to map out the next 20 years, just your next step. Start by reflecting on your values, skills, and goals. Tools like career coaching or structured programmes (like SJP Academy’s career change pathway) can provide clarity and direction when trying to make up your mind.
We recommend attending open days or arranging conversations with people who've been through the same process as you. It's easy to feel like there's too much information out there, which is why speaking directly to people can be a more accessible way to get your questions answered.
7. Constantly waiting
What it sounds like: "It's just not the right time" "Maybe next year..."
Top Tip: There’s rarely a “perfect” time for change - only the time you decide to start. Life is busy, responsibilities pile up, and there will always be reasons to wait. But waiting for the stars to align can mean staying stuck for years.
Instead, try this: focus on what small steps you can take now. Research a new path, have a conversation, attend a workshop, update your CV. Maybe even gain a qualification to help you on your journey. Starting something new doesn’t mean quitting overnight - it means you’re moving forward, even if it’s slowly. Progress is progress.
So... what now?
The hardest part of changing careers often isn’t the change itself - it’s getting started. If you’re considering a new chapter, you don’t have to do it alone. The St. James’s Place Academy was built to support people exactly like you: talented professionals ready for a meaningful next step.
Whether you’re ready to make a move or still weighing up your options, remember this: you’re not starting from scratch. You’re starting from experience.
If you’d like to learn more about the opportunity with us, fill out our form: Start a conversation | Joining St. James’s Place Academy