The term "career" is defined by the Oxford English Dictionary as an individual’s “course or progress through life (or a distinct portion of life).†While broadly encompassing personal and professional growth, it most commonly refers to a person’s chosen occupation or profession—often requiring specialized training or formal education—serving as their long-term lifework.
Etymologically, the word stems from the Middle French term carrière (16th century), meaning “road†or “racecourse,†which traces back to the Latin phrase via cararia, or “track for wheeled vehicles,†derived from carrus, meaning “wagon.†The imagery of a track or road aptly symbolizes the structured journey of a person’s working life.
By the late 20th century, widespread access to education and a broader range of professional opportunities enabled individuals to actively plan and design their career paths. This evolution also led to the emergence of professions such as career counselors and career advisors, who support others in navigating their occupational journeys.
In the modern era, it is increasingly common for individuals to pursue multiple careers throughout their lifetime—sometimes sequentially, sometimes concurrently. This has given rise to hybrid professional identities such as engineer-writer, educator-entrepreneur, or designer-consultant. Economist Richard Florida notes that such shifts are especially pronounced among members of the creative class, where personal fulfillment, flexibility, and innovation often guide career decisions.
Why People Change Careers
Career changes are driven by a variety of factors, ranging from organizational shifts to personal aspirations. According to workforce studies, the most common reasons include:
- Organizational downsizing or restructuring (54%)
- Pursuit of new challenges or professional growth (30%)
- Ineffective or poor leadership within the organization (25%)
- Unhealthy relationships with managers or supervisors (22%)
- Desire for improved work-life balance (21%)
- Feeling undervalued or unrecognized (21%)
- Seeking higher compensation and better benefits (18%)
- Desire for alignment with personal and organizational values (17%)
- Mismatch between skills and job responsibilities (16%)
- Financial instability of the employer (13%)
- Relocation of the organization or office (12%)
These motivations reflect the evolving nature of work and the increasing emphasis on purpose, fulfillment, and strategic career planning in today’s economy.