Book excerpt: Are you ready for a change? Whether you’re seeking a more fulfilling job or rethinking your career goals after a layoff, the questions you face are crucial. In Strategies for Successful Career Change, seasoned business and career journalist Martha E. Mangelsdorf distills lessons from a diverse group of people who have made the leap and landed on their feet. To help you navigate the challenges, pitfalls, and rewards of career transition, this book will show you how to: • Align your professional life with your personal goals • Identify your transferable skills, strengths, and constraints • Explore possible new careers in low-risk ways • Change careers while still paying the bills You’ll assess your current work life and aspirations, while taking into account logistical realities such as finances, health insurance, and family obligations. Through exercises, resources, and inspiring stories from successful career-changers, this supportive and empowering guide will help you find your very best next work life. “If you’re considering a career change, this book should be your go-to resource for insight, strategy, and practical advice. But even better, it serves up the inspiration we all need to do something great, thanks to real stories from people who’ve discovered their best life.” --Keith Ferrazzi, author of Never Eat Alone and Who’s Got Your Back “The genius of this book is its integration of solid, tried-and-true principles of career change with practical, engaging real-life stories of people who used them. An essential resource for career-changers and those who love them.” --Margaret Benefiel, PhD, author of Soul at Work and The Soul of a Leader “If you’re thinking about changing careers, Martha Mangelsdorf’s book is a must-read. Even if you’re not thinking about changing careers, it’s a should-read. Her fascinating stories about successful career-changers will make you ask yourself vital questions that are all too easy to ignore.” --Bo Burlingham, editor at large of Inc. magazine and author of Small Giants: Companies That Choose to Be Great Instead of Big