It's not impossible to change careers if you're unhappy in your current position. We give you 5 great tips that'll make the transition to your dream job easier.

We get it. Work sometimes gets boring, tedious and you feel stuck. This feeling is not uncommon. If you have been feeling a little less than happy a little more often than usual lately, it could be time to consider a different career path.

As daunting as this sounds, it can be done. With patience, determination and these 5 steps you can start building the life and career you're longing for.

Start with what you know

Draw up a list of all your skills and talents and find careers that match or require those qualities. Research the various routes you can take to get from where you are to where you’d like to be.

You should also think about your values and goals because the last thing you want is to end up feeling exactly the same as you do right now. Once you've made a list of careers that suit you find companies and people that work in a similar role to the one you’re interested in, and ask them plenty of questions. If you can swing it, ask to job shadow.

Get a mentor

Changing careers can be very challenging, which is why you should find someone that can show you the ropes – like a mentor. Ideally, the person you choose should be in the field of your choice or have a wealth of knowledge regarding your desired career. 

Read: How to find a great mentor

Get real

You should be scared. In fact, you’ll probably encounter a number of problems while trying to get on the right path. It’s important not to set yourself up with unrealistic expectations. You might have to start from the bottom again in order to reach your dream job.

Know all the possible implications of starting over before you take a leap of faith.

Think before you leap

Think carefully about whether or not you can afford to be without a good paying job for a few months or even a year. If you don’t have the required education, do you have the time (and money) to commit yourself to a new course?

Gaining experience will take time. So if this really isn’t an option for you right now, talk to your employer about in-house opportunities.  Then weigh up the pros, cons, possibilities, and consequences carefully.

It’s all about networking

Put yourself out there and start building mutually beneficial relationships with important role players.  Choose valued employers, well-known professionals and various recruiters. The idea is to form connections with people who can help you get ahead in your desired career.

Read: Why is networking so important?

Anyone can help. Your family and friends all have wider networks of family and friends who also have family and friends. All you need to do is let everyone know what your interests are, and you could be introduced to the right people. 

Once you're ready, keep in mind that Careers24 is home to thousands of job listings, and one of them could be your dream job. Simply start by uploading your CV in just a few easy steps.