Starting out with less experience in your field will be difficult. Chances are, you will be starting at the very bottom. Therefore, it is important to do some financial planning before you make the big move.

Research how much you will be earning. You can talk to people in the field about how much you can earn, given the experience you currently have. You may be able to talk to people who have the power to hire new staff and ask what salary the position could be expected to pay. To get the full picture, ask more than one person who’s active in the field.

Make sure your sources are reliable, and don’t just assume that the information you get is enough. You may miscalculate everything and end up in a difficult position.

Decide whether you can afford the pay cut. Since you will be making less money, calculate your monthly expenses and see if you can afford the pay cut. If there is a need to take a second job, by all means do. Cut unnecessary expenses wherever you can.

Finding work can (sometimes unexpectedly) take a long time. Having no salary for a few months can be extremely difficult, so make sure you’re financially prepared for a worst-case scenario.

What if you can’t afford it? Face the fact that you won’t be able to maintain your current standard of living while you pursue your dream career.

You can make adjustments by moving to a less expensive home, settling with just one car and avoiding eating out most of the time. The sacrifice you’ll be making will be worth itif you make it into the career you’ve always wanted.

These tips can help you in the transition to your next career change. You can also talk to peers and friends and discuss whether you are making the right move. Know what you really want in life, and you can figure out what you want to do for a living today and in the future.