Change. So many feelings are caught up in just one word. Change can be scary. It can bring a sense of renewal. Many times we meet it with opposition. However, in the end, change is a fact of life; nothing stays the same forever. Since “The Great Recession” jobs are not as secure as they once were. Millennials are finding out that things are not how they were for their grandparents and parents who found jobs right out of school and stayed there until retirement. When you are changing careers things can be daunting. Though this can be stressful, it can also be very rewarding. Here are some do’s and don’t’s to consider when switching careers to help make the process go smoothly.

Do Not Burn your Bridges

We’ve all had at least one of those jobs that we’d rather forget we had. No matter how you feel about the company and/or manager you’ve worked for, do not do or say anything that could reflect badly on them (especially online); it could, in turn, look bad on you. Remember this employer will likely still appear on your resume and you will still be referenced.

Do Maintain an Organized Resume

In the ever-fluctuating business world change is inevitable, even major companies and brands have had layoffs; most recently ESPN. Also, with social media, we are networking more and many times offers can materialize when we aren’t even looking for them. When it comes to your resume, think like a Boy Scout–always be prepared. Having a well-organized and written resume ready to go will help lessen the stress you may feel embarking on a new career path.

Do Not make Rash Decisions

It is estimated that Millennials will have changed jobs about four times before they turn 32. Though it is the norm to job hop now, it doesn’t mean you should. We all have bad days in the office. Before you type out that anger-fueled letter of resignation, take the time to breathe. Sometimes we let our emotions guide us. While this isn’t always a bad thing, we can make quick decisions that might land us in an even worse situation because we didn’t take the time to look at whole picture. Remember, sometimes the grass isn’t always greener.

Do Research your Options

When you’ve had one of those bad days or are feeling you need a change, consider sitting down and making a list of what you do and don’t like about your current career. Use this list when considering your options. Just because you’ve been given an offer doesn’t mean you have to say yes. Look into the package you are being presented to ensure you will be happy with your new career move and if it will offer you what you are in search of.

Do Not Let Age Limit You

You’re only as old as you feel! You are never too old to pursue a new career path. If you feel passionate about a certain type of work, whether you are 18 or 81, go for it! Changing careers is not something that is limited to Millennials; many Baby Boomers and Gen X’ers are reinventing themselves professionally, too.

Do Plan for the Future

Now, I’m not just talking about the future you could have with your new career, you should start planning for the future before you even think about changing your pursuits. I’m talking about planning for your future finances. Sometimes you will have time between one career or another; having a secure financial plan will help you when transitioning between careers.

There is nothing wrong with change if it is in the right direction. – Winston Churchill