From the "Recipes for Success" Podcast: S2:Ep 11, Ciara Lynch on Career Change, Job Fulfillment & Farming Life
I find it very inspiring to hear stories of others' career transitions, as it reminds me that change is possible. There are stories that inspire, surprise, and sometimes, even challenge our perceptions of the degree of change we can make. One such story is that of Ciara Lynch, who made a remarkable shift from the fast-paced world of corporate marketing to the outdoorsy life of a dairy farmer.
Ciara's transition wasn't just a pivot; it was a leap a whole new way of life, fueled by a desire for change and a longing for more fulfillment from her work. "There has to be an easier way to do this life," Ciara reflects, remembering the long hours spent commuting while her husband, a dairy farmer, enjoyed the simple pleasures of country living. The stark contrast between her hectic corporate lifestyle and the rhythm of farm life planted the seed for her career transformation.
As Ciara delved deeper into her motivations, she unearthed a sense of exhaustion and burnout lurking beneath the surface of her successful marketing career. Despite her love for the job and the invaluable lessons learned from her colleagues, the toll of constant hustle and commuting took its toll.
Recognising the need for Career Change
"I loved it until I just didn't love it anymore," she admits, echoing the sentiments of many professionals caught in the throes of career fatigue.
The tipping point came when Ciara realized the true financial cost of her daily commute. Crunching the numbers with her husband, she discovered that it amounted to a staggering €10,000 per year, factoring in expenses like fuel, tolls, and vehicle depreciation. This financial revelation shed light on the hidden costs of her corporate lifestyle, prompting her to reevaluate her priorities and explore alternatives.
For Ciara, the decision to transition to dairy farming wasn't just about escaping the grind; it was a strategic move towards a more sustainable and fulfilling career path. "Let's jump into it," she recalls deciding with determination, embracing the challenge of charting a new course.
However, the journey from "high heels to heifers" wasn't without its hurdles. Securing a position in the agricultural sector required careful planning and seizing opportunities as they arose. "You can't just snap your fingers and land a job on a dairy farm," Ciara acknowledges, emphasizing the importance of patience and persistence in navigating career transitions.
Reflecting on her experience, Ciara offers invaluable advice for women contemplating a career change or job transition. She encourages individuals to assess the true cost of their current work situation, beyond just monetary considerations. "It's a really interesting exercise to do for anybody who's trying to write out that pros and cons list about whether to make the change," she suggests, emphasizing the importance of weighing the intangible benefits of career fulfillment and work-life balance.
In the end, Ciara's journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of embracing change and pursuing a path aligned with one's passions and values. Whether it's trading boardrooms for barns or embarking on a new professional adventure, her story inspires women to embrace their agency in crafting fulfilling and meaningful careers.
As a career coach for women navigating career transitions, Ciara's story reminds us that the path to fulfillment may lead us to unexpected places, but with courage, resilience, and a willingness to embrace change, we can cultivate careers that nourish our souls and enrich our lives.
To delve deeper into our conversation, listen to the full podcast episode here.
Follow Ciara's journey on her Instagram page, "High Heels to Heifers".
Tune in and be inspired to create your own recipe for success.
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