Changing careers at 6 years into a job, is it realistic? - what worked for you?

After 6 years as a mechanic I am thinking about moving into a different field. I am in Minneapolis, in case local advice matters. My family is supportive but nervous. Did you take a pay cut?

Try a small project in the new field before committing. It told me a lot about whether I would enjoy it.

Keep everything in writing and save the confirmation numbers. It saved me later.