Career change after a layoff, where to begin? (update)

After 16 years as an administrative assistant I am thinking about moving into a different field. I worked as an administrative assistant before this. My family is supportive but nervous. Did you take a pay cut?

I took a small pay cut for a year, and it was worth it for the growth afterwards.

I began with informational chats, then a short online course, then a related entry-level role. It took about 3 months.