Jane Mckenna, Career Coach and founder of Brilliant Me Coaching

12 Dec

“Don't be afraid to explore what might be on the other side of the door”

What was your 'Another Door' moment?

Before I set up my own business I worked for more than 20 years in fashion retail (although I flirted with working for a tech start up for a couple of years somewhere in the middle). I had a niggle that I didn't want to do what I was doing for the rest of my career but couldn't work out how to make the transition to get out.

Since starting my family, I had completely put aside strategic career choices and purely chose jobs that meant I could work flexibly so I inadvertently got myself into a bit of a career hole. Thankfully the pandemic made this decision for me and I was made redundant and the door on retail closed behind me.

It was pretty scary but the relief was enormous. I made working out what to do next my full time job, and explored multiple avenues and spoke to a lot of people (I mean A LOT!).

It took time and the support of my husband to make the leap in to retraining to be a coach and it was the best decision I ever made. I would never have given myself the time. space and permission to do it prior to redundancy. I also sought out roles that could be done alongside this career choice so that I also have other revenue streams. I am also a Career Adviser in Secondary Schools and I work freelance as a strategy consultant.

I couldn't be happier!

What did you learn from your Another Door moment?

I learnt that I could do the very thing I was so petrified of in the past. I also learnt so much about myself in the process. I hadn't realised how determined and focused I was until I found something that gave me purpose.

What is your advice to someone experiencing a door closing in their life?

Don't be afraid to explore what might be on the other side of the door. Create and prioritise time to do this - it's on you to do something to start the change, however small. Also there are loads of people out there to help and support you - friends, family, ex-colleagues, professionals - you just need to make the first move and ask!