Do you come to work solely for the paycheck? Are coffee breaks the best part of your day? Do you find your work under stimulating, exhausting, and stressful? If so, it may be time for a career change.

If you are unhappy with your current job, the first step is to explore all your options. Generally, those considering a career change can take the following courses of action:

• Staying at your current employer, but switching roles. This option is attractive to many people because it minimizes the trauma and uncertainty of change. However, be aware that job training and/or professional development may be necessary if you are to successfully transition to a new role. Be prepared for some studying or on-the-job training.

• Transitioning to a completely new career after acquiring the necessary training/education. This option is suitable for people who wish to start fresh in a completely new industry. To successfully making such a leap, you will need to do a lot of advance planning, research, and studying. Happily, though, studies have shown that the money invested in adult education is generally recouped by a higher salary.

If you’ve always wanted a certain career, right now is the best time to take the plunge. With so many adults switching careers and going back to school, you have excellent company and many quality adult education programs to choose from. In addition, with the growth of online universities, gaining the knowledge and skills needed in your new career is more convenient and affordable than ever.