TLDR
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When facing a crossroads, let your personal values guide your next steps.
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A fresh start doesn’t mean starting from scratch – past experience is an asset you can leverage.
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Surround yourself with supporters who will keep you motivated and grounded.
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Tap into financial resources that may match your journey and your goals.
No matter what stage of life you’re in, talking about money is rarely easy. Students, newcomers, couples, retirees, parents and those starting over all face different money challenges, but there’s one thing that’s common – talking about them can make all the difference. RBC’s new video series “The Drive” aims to make these real-life conversations more approachable, bringing everyday Canadians together, to share in the dialogue.
In this episode, Jesse Jones drives through Calgary, Alberta, with three passengers who have navigated major life changes. Watch how they have reinvented themselves and the ways they are making their new paths work.
Change is the only constant in life. Sometimes it’s a choice, and sometimes it’s unexpected. Regardless of how you arrived at a turning point, taking the next step can feel overwhelming. But change can also be empowering, bringing opportunities for growth, renewal and new beginnings. Here’s how to navigate it all with confidence:
Figure out what matters most to you
If you’re feeling uncertain about your next move, take a step back and reflect on what’s most important to you. What are your core values? What excites you? What do you want to build? Use these answers as your North Star when making decisions. A fresh start should align with what brings you fulfillment, not just what seems practical.
Recognize your resilience
You’ve faced challenges before, and you’ve made it through. The past few years alone have tested resilience in ways we never expected. Trust in your ability to adapt and overcome. If doubt creeps in, remind yourself of past victories – big or small. And don’t underestimate the power of self-talk. The way you frame your own story can shape your mindset and your future.
Surround yourself with a supportive community
Doubt is natural, but having the right people around you can make all the difference. Seek out mentors, friends, family or professional networks that uplift and encourage you. If you’re facing a difficult transition, don’t isolate yourself – lean on your community. Support systems provide not only encouragement but also fresh perspectives and practical advice that can help you move forward with confidence.
Leverage what you already know
Starting over doesn’t mean you’ve lost everything you have learned and experienced in life so far. Thinking of starting fresh by opening a business? Tap into what you’ve learned in your previous jobs about working with people and delivering value. Switching careers? Tap into any transferable skills that can help you thrive – such as leadership, communication and empathy.
Explore financial resources that can help
Every transition comes with financial considerations, and fear of financial instability can hold people back from taking that leap. But resources exist to support different life changes. If you’re going back to school, look into scholarships, bursaries or student loan programs. If you’re starting a business, research government grants, business loans and funding opportunities designed for entrepreneurs. If you’re taking time off for personal growth, consider budgeting strategies that can stretch your dollar further. Knowing your options can relieve uncertainty and help you plan your next move with more confidence.
Read more on how to manage unexpected events.
