Many midlife professionals are considering switching careers, yet making the leap is no easy feat.

Before making the jump into a career change, it's crucial that you conduct thorough research into job descriptions for the field you wish to enter as well as organizing informational interviews with those working within it.

1. Be open to new opportunities

Are You Thinking About Switching Careers or Pursuing Something New? Whatever the motivation, keeping all your options open will increase the chance for greater opportunities in the future.

As part of any change, it's essential that you establish clear goals for what you hope to accomplish and focus on the skills necessary for you to achieve those goals. Doing this will enable you to identify any transferable skills and highlight them on your resume or interviews. Furthermore, be open to new challenges and learn through experience by shadowing someone working in the new field, volunteering or starting up a side hustle as ways of experiencing how it feels like before jumping in headfirst!

Many LinkedIn profiles include statements like, "Open to new opportunities" as a signal to recruiters that you may be considering a change; however, including these phrases should only serve as an emergency back-up plan and not as part of a full-scale job search plan.

Before making the leap and quitting your job, it is imperative that you consult a team of trusted advisers about all possible outcomes of this decision - this should include financial advisors as well as those directly affected, like family.

2. Take a career break

Career breaks can be one of the best ways to change careers later in life. From seeking relief from toxic work environments and finding fresh inspiration, to spending more time with family and refreshing one's goal setting process - taking a career break can be an excellent way to recharge and reevaluate goals and refresh motivations.

Whenever taking an extended leave from work, make sure you're prepared financially. If you are used to receiving regular income, make sure you set up savings and other income sources - for instance freelance work - while reviewing living expenses to find ways of cutting costs, such as changing insurance policies or switching providers for utilities.

While on a career break, you can gain new skills that can help transition into your dream job. From travelling and working for charities to volunteering and developing soft skills - each experience and new skill gained will enhance future career endeavors.

Taken individually, taking a career break may not always be feasible due to financial responsibilities or dependents; but if it's within your means and you are passionate about exploring a different path, taking time off could be the smartest decision ever.

3. Don’t be afraid to ask for help

Many individuals may feel awkward asking for assistance for various reasons. Some may fear appearing weak by reaching out for assistance; while others worry that asking will burden or inconveniece friends and family. Although these concerns are valid, seeking assistance could actually enhance productivity.

Note that those who do not reach out for assistance often become overwhelmed and overworked, causing anxiety to set in. To become more comfortable asking for assistance, start small - ask a stranger on an airplane to reach for your carry-on bag, or ask one of your colleagues for review of a report draft you are working on if necessary.

Before making any major career decisions, it's advisable to discuss them with anyone impacted - family, friends and colleagues alike. This will ensure everyone involved understands your plans as you make your journey and can offer support during this transitional phase.

Consider how a new career will impact your finances and personal obligations before embarking on it. Reassessing your budget or considering how long you can survive without a source of income may be necessary.

4. Be realistic

Assume realistically what kind of career transition you want. Consider asking yourself, "Am I seeking to enter a different industry or just work in different roles?"

Talking with people familiar with your potential career field will provide an accurate picture of its challenges, helping you determine whether it meets your skills, interests and career goals.

Consider how your new career choice may have an effect on other aspects of your life, such as family or financial stability. Saving up money or finding specific training may be required before beginning work in this new field; make sure your plans with those affected (such as spouse and children).

Final step - be passionate about what you do - otherwise, motivation could quickly dwindle and your transition could collapse. Determine what drives you - such as providing for family or making an impactful statement in society - and use that passion as the engine behind your transition.