The Courage to Begin Again (Career Re-Entry Edition)

From pause to possibility: Reframing the career comeback

Author

Janelle Howell
September 20, 2025

Inside this Special Edition

✉️ A Note from Nelle Why Re-Entry Isn’t Starting at Zero

💡 The Big Idea Why Transferable Skills Are Your Secret Advantage

🌱 Motivation Tip 5 Dos and Don’ts for a Confident Return

💼 Free Resource The Skills Score

⚙️ Design in Motion 6 Keys to Designing a Great Career Re-Entry Narrative

📨 An Invitation to Action Want to Design Your Re-Entry Roadmap With Me?

Why Re-Entry Isn’t Starting at Zero

Hey!

Welcome back to the world of work! Whether you've been gone for a few months or a few years, it’s time to get back out there. If you’re going through a bunch of emotions, just remember it’s a new day. The past is in the past and it’s time to move forward because: Life happens, you know?

Maybe you:

  • Had to take care of your children full-time or an aging parent

  • Had a massive layoff, and you’re trying to regain your footing

  • Took a sabbatical, but aren’t sure if you’re even passionate about returning to your line of work anymore

And those are all valid reasons to step away.

But now, it’s time to focus on you.

In this issue, we’ll talk about how you can prepare for your return and make the most of it. Inside, we’ll cover:

  • The importance of transferable skills (and why they matter more than you think).

  • A 15-question Your Skills Score tool to help you identify your strengths.

  • The dos and don’ts of re-entering the workplace with confidence.

If you’ve been wondering whether your career break put you “behind,” this edition will show you why you’re not starting from zero - and how to take your next step with clarity.

👉 Subscribe to read the full issue and get access to all the tools.

Let’s go!

~Nelle

“Opportunity does not knock, it presents itself when you beat down the door.”

-Kyle Chandler

Why Transferable Skills Are Your Secret Advantage

Coming back to the workplace after time away can feel like starting from scratch - but it’s not. Whether you were caring for family, pursuing other passions, or stepping back to regroup, you’ve been building skills all along. The key is recognizing and connecting them to the role(s) or job(s) you want to pursue.

Transferable skills are the abilities you can carry from one role or life experience to another, such as problem-solving, communication, adaptability, and leadership. They don’t vanish just because you took a break; in fact, life often strengthens them.

Think about it:

  • Managing a household sharpens project management and budgeting.

  • Volunteering builds collaboration and communication.

  • Navigating change develops resilience and adaptability.

These are the very qualities employers value most, especially in a world being reshaped by AI and automation, where human perspective and creativity matter more than ever.

Instead of asking, “Do I still fit the job market?” start asking:

  • Which tasks energize me?

  • Where have I solved problems creatively before?

  • What experiences built my confidence and resilience?

Your transferable skills form a foundation you can build on, no matter which industry or role you step into next. Pairing them with small test-drives - a short project, helping a friend with a business challenge, or shadowing a role you’re curious about - gives you clarity and momentum.

You’re not starting over. You’re bringing your experiences forward - and that in itself is powerful.

5 Dos and Don’ts for a Confident Return

Re-entering the workplace isn’t just about updating your resume, it’s about rebuilding your rhythm and confidence. You might wonder if your skills are still sharp, how you’ll fit into a new team, or what’s changed since you left. The truth is, confidence doesn’t come from having all the answers, it comes from knowing you can adapt, learn, and contribute in meaningful ways. I’ve provided a few simple dos and don’ts to help you ease back in and help you you get acclimated for a returning win.

Do step outside your comfort zone. Take on stretch projects or short-term assignments from adjacent departments that challenge you. This is one way to continue to expand your learning, position yourself for future promotions, and make yourself indispensable.

Don’t stay in default mode. Avoid jumping into roles or routines just because they’re familiar or expected. It might be tempting, but don’t do it. From this point forward, you need to be intentional about your choices and where you invest your energy (and that includes people).

Do seek out and test-drive opportunities. Volunteer, sign up for small projects, or try short-term contracts before committing fully. It’s a great way to experiment so you can genuinely develop and discover your strengths and values.

Don’t underestimate small wins. Celebrate each completed project, skill learned, or connection made. No matter how big or small. Doing so will help you build momentum and confidence.

Do reflect and adjust regularly. Keep a work journal of everything going on (from your personal progress/feelings to favorite/challenging projects). Reflection ensures you continue moving toward work that feels meaningful and aligned.

Want to Design What’s Next with Me?

If you’ve been thinking about stepping back into the workforce or figuring out what’s next, now is the perfect time to take action. I created Life Design with Nelle to help professionals like you get clear on your options, and approach career re-entry with confidence and intention.

Whether you want to explore a new industry or other career options, I can provide the guidance and support to help you move forward with purpose.

Book a free discovery call and see if coaching is a good fit for the season you’re in.

~Nelle