Written by Hallie Goodwin | March 21

Starting a new career is like stepping into uncharted territory—it's exciting and nerve-wracking, especially when you've dedicated years to developing your skills in a particular field. However, what if I told you that your past experiences hold the key to unlocking opportunities for your future career? Today, we'll explore the power of applying your past experience to launch a new and fulfilling career.

Each of us carries an abundance of experiences, skills, and knowledge accumulated throughout our careers. Whether you've spent years in a specific industry, for me interior design, or have dabbled in different roles, your journey is unique. That journey can serve as a launchpad for your next career chapter, which in my case is Product Design.

Reinventing your Path

One of the most significant advantages is acknowledging your past skills and experiences, then using them as a stepping stone into starting a new career. Remember you are not starting from scratch, you are starting with experience. Let’s take a look at a few previous skills that are found across many different professions. These could include:

• Communication: Written communication, public speaking, and effective communication is valued in many different careers.

• Problem-Solving: A skill that is used in our everyday lives, the ability to identify challenges, evaluate situations, and develop effective solutions is a skill that is recognized and needed.

• Adaptability: The ability to adapt to new environments, technologies, and challenges is essential in today's fast-paced world.

Specific skills for my journey from interior design to product design have included:

• User-Centric Design: Just as I’ve focused on understanding the needs and preferences of my clients in interior design, product design also revolves around creating solutions that cater to the end-user.

• Attention to Detail: From selecting the perfect color palette to ensuring every element harmonizes within a space, attention to detail is a trait that can set me apart as an interior designer. In product design, this same attention to detail is essential for creating products that not only look beautiful but also perform flawlessly in the hands of users.

Transitioning to a new career may require obtaining new skills and knowledge to bridge the gap between your past experience and your future role. Fortunately, there are numerous resources available to help you acquire the necessary expertise.

I learned my new skill set through enrolling in Flatiron School , Product Design Bootcamp course, mentoring, and networking. No matter what your career transition looks like there is an abundance of training programs and people who are willing to mentor.

Enroll you won’t regret it.

Launching a new career is not without its challenges, but it's also an opportunity for growth, exploration, and self-discovery. Embrace the journey, celebrate your successes, and learn from your setbacks along the way. It is not easy but it is worth it!

As I embark on my journey of launching a new career, I recognize that my past experiences are not limitations—they're strengths that will launch me forward. By utilizing my past skills, exploring new opportunities, and embracing the learning process, I have opened doors to a world of possibilities. And so can you!

Your New Adventure Awaits

Have the courage to dream big, and explore boldly. Your future career success starts with embracing the strengths you already possess.