Changing careers at 16 years into a job, is it realistic?, barista here

I want to move from barista to something with more stability. I would rather hear the honest version than the polite one. My family is supportive but nervous. Did you take a pay cut?

I began with informational chats, then a short online course, then a related entry-level role. It took about 7 months.

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