Want to make a change? Ask yourself these questions first. [Video]

Changing careers is one way to keep yourself engaged in your work, but it also involves some risk. Ask yourself these four questions before starting a new path.

What’s motivating this change? Sometimes, the answer is obvious: You have a lifelong passion and it’s finally time to commit to it. But other times, you might just be dissatisfied with your current job. Be clear about whether you truly want to make a move or just escape your current situation.

What are small ways to test new waters? These could include a mix of informational interviews, job shadowing, reading books and memoirs from people in the field, and asking people pointed questions about the best and worst elements of their jobs.

What’s my runway? In other words, how much financial wiggle room do you have to take a risk or a pay cut? Take a moment to plan the logistics of your pivot.

What’s my fallback plan? Keep a realistic view of the potential obstacles you might face—and your ability to adapt if things don’t go the way you anticipated.

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Adapted from “4 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Changing Careers,” by Dorie Clark.