If you feel like quitting your job, then you’re not alone. However, it’s important to make a smart decision and to refrain from doing anything too spontaneous, especially if your rushed choice could have a major effect on the rest of your life. To avoid making a mistake you might regret, here are five things to consider before making a career change.

Why do you want to make a change?

The reasons can be unlimited and it comes down to every situation. Perhaps you hate your boss. Maybe you want more freedom or money. Maybe you no longer have a passion for your job or industry—there might be a profession you’ve always wanted to pursue.

Figuring out why you want to make a career change can help you decide what changes you need to make and how to make them, as well as be your driving force in this decision and new pursuit.

Is it a smart financial option?

We understand you might not like your job, but making a rash career decision could lead to much bigger problems.

We’re not saying you shouldn’t follow your dreams—we’re saying to make a smart financial decision. As an example, you can start your business on the side while working full time to ensure money is coming in, which can help to support your side business. Putting pressure on your side hustle to succeed can lead to a failed business and unnecessary stress.

If you have a lot of debt, then it might be a good decision to pay off that debt first before making a career change, especially if your new career pays less money or you need to go back to school.

What do you have to do to make this change happen?

If you need to go back to school or gain certain skills and experience, then compare programs and training services to ensure you receive the proper skills and training. Of course, it might just be a matter of applying to new jobs and going through the interview process.

Figuring out what you need to do can give you a better idea of how feasible your career change is and how long it might take.

Do you have to relocate?

Certain jobs and positions require relocation. If that’s the case, then there’s a world of other things you need to consider, starting with financial concerns.

If you have to move to North Carolina, for example, then you should consider your options when it comes to moving. There’s a variety of moving companies, including Asheville movers that help with both local and long-distance moving. Dry Ridge Moving and Transportation can give you a quote and provide you with the necessary moving services you need.

You might also have to look into school districts if you have children or plan on starting a family. Your career change could require you to work in the city or somewhere more remote. Nonetheless, if you have to relocate, then a lifestyle change, not just a career change, might take place.

Have you explored all the possibilities?

No matter what your reasoning is behind this decision, there are many options to explore. If you want to make more money, then you should consider speaking with your boss about a raise before changing careers.

If you’re no longer passionate about your job, then decide which jobs and industries would make you happy. You might even want to make a career change if you’re injured or have an illness. There are other options while you recover. Cheap income protection insurance can ensure you continue to get paid to the tune of 75 percent of your regular income if you’re unable to work due to an injury or illness.

Only you know when it’s time to make a career change. We hope these questions will help during your decision.