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A conventional job is often described as comfortable, stable, or secure. Whether or not that is actually accurate, it can certainly feel that way. However, humans tend to be rather illogical about things and that perceived security may not be as secure as it feels. Regardless, comfortable easily describes many jobs. Routine and known things are somehow comfortable. Branching out into the unknown can certainly be intimidating. This is how I felt when I left the safe, familiar world of engineering and decided to buy a farm. That coupled with my inexperience in the field of farming made it feel extra scary. However, today I’m grateful that we pursued our dreams, even though we haven’t yet fully met all our goals.
Here are some things to think about if you decide to consider a career change. My experience is from engineering to farming/ranching/permaculture so that’s what I’ll share, but I suspect it could apply to more than just those specifics. Keep in mind that I’m not giving advice, just sharing our experiences. As my neighbor always says, free advice is worth just that anyway. Most importantly, try to be honest with yourself throughout this decision making process or else this is a waste of time. Be willing to consider downsides. Don’t look at best-case income/etc unless you also consider worst case or more realistic outcomes.
Computer engineer turned full time farmer, grazier, builder, permaculturist and volunteer fire fighter. We left corporate America to live a simple, self-sufficient life in the Ozarks. Read more
