Big Bucks, Balance, and Burnout: Why People Change Careers

Share this article:
Editor’s note: Lantern by SoFi seeks to provide content that is objective, independent and accurate. Writers are separate from our business operation and do not receive direct compensation from advertisers or partners. Read more about our Editorial Guidelines and How We Make Money.
Made a Career Change? You’re Not Alone

Why They Made the Switch
The Reasons for Changing Careers

35% wanted a bigger salary 32% were seeking better work/life balance 26% felt driven to do something they were more passionate about 22% wanted more professional growth opportunities 20% were feeling burned out 18% no longer liked their job
What Women Want at Work
Why Women Change Careers Vs. Why Men Change Careers

To do something they were more passionate about: 74% women vs. 26% men Better work/life balance: 61% women vs. 39% men To make more money: 57% women vs. 43% men
Quick Change Artists

Serial Shifters
Younger Workers Are Making Moves

66% of respondents were between the ages of 20 and 30 when they first switched jobs. 41% of those under age 45 are currently considering a new career. By comparison, just 27% over age 45 who are still working are thinking about making a swap.
A Fatter Paycheck
The Fields Where They Found the Bigger Bucks:
Transportation, distribution, logistics Finance Marketing, sales, service IT (information technology)
College Is Key

If They Could Turn Back Time
What They’d Do Differently the Second Time Around
I’d pick a major that would lead to a better-paying career: 29% I’d choose a more general major that had a wider career path: 27% I’d opt for a major with better job prospects: 26% I’d pick a major that’s more specific to a particular career: 24%
The Chosen Path
The Jobs People Stick With
Business management/administration: 14% IT: 14% Health science: 12% Education and training: 9%
The Good News

The Takeaway
LCSL0323006
About the Author
Pam O’Brien is an award-winning editor and writer who has covered personal finance, budgeting, small business, and money issues. She is also an expert in health and wellness whose work has appeared in O Quarterly, Shape, Health, and More magazines, among others.
Share this article: