Time We Discuss: Change to Your Dream Career with Chindia Ilonka
Watch/Listen to this Episode Change to Your Dream Career with Chindia Ilonka
This episode of Time We Discuss features guest Chindia Ilonka, who has transitioned through multiple careers, including teaching, consulting, entrepreneurship, and writing. Ilonka shares her journey, emphasizing the importance of self-discovery and learning from each career move.
She recalls struggling with the question of what she wanted to be, initially following in her father’s entrepreneurial footsteps. However, she later realized that true success lies in aligning with one's passions rather than societal expectations. Despite obtaining two bachelor's degrees and a master’s, she found that formal education didn’t directly shape her career but provided valuable "nuggets of gold" that she carried forward.
Ilonka describes the internal struggle of feeling like a failure for frequently shifting careers. Society often labels people who transition careers as lacking commitment, but she believes adaptability is an asset. Over time, she learned to listen to her inner voice, which guided her toward fulfilling work. She highlights the importance of embracing uncertainty, as fear of failure often holds people back from pursuing meaningful career changes.
Her exploration of different fields, such as website development, programming, and graphic design, was driven by curiosity and the need to make a living. She initially doubted her artistic abilities until a colleague recognized her talent, which validated her potential. She discusses how external encouragement can sometimes awaken hidden skills and passions.
One of the key themes of the discussion is the non-linear nature of career success. Ilonka emphasizes that modern work environments value diverse skill sets, and the traditional model of staying in one career for life is becoming outdated. She encourages people to be open to transitions and embrace career shifts as opportunities rather than setbacks.
The conversation also touches on imposter syndrome, which can make career changers feel unqualified or fearful of failure. Ilonka advises individuals to avoid comparing themselves to others, as everyone's circumstances are different. She recommends a gradual approach to career changes, such as starting a side project while maintaining a stable job before making a full transition.
Ilonka has developed a framework called the "seven shifts of transformation," which begins with mastering self-awareness and eliminating self-doubt. She believes that many limiting beliefs stem from societal conditioning, where people are taught to prioritize security over passion. Overcoming these beliefs requires inner work, reflection, and courage to step into the unknown.
As an author, Ilonka has used her personal experiences to inspire others. Her latest book, Quantum Rebel, is an invitation for visionary leaders to step into their highest potential. She envisions a future where individuals no longer have to choose between purpose and profit but instead integrate both. She is working on building the *Quantum Rebel* community to support people on their journeys of transformation.
To those hesitant about changing careers, Ilonka suggests taking time to pause and reflect rather than rushing into decisions. She believes true fulfillment comes from aligning one's career with personal values and passions. The discussion concludes with encouragement for anyone seeking change: take small steps, trust the process, and embrace life's possibilities.
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