Changing careers at 8 years into a job, is it realistic? - 8 months and counting

I want to move from dental hygienist to something with more stability. I am in Boston, in case local advice matters. I have good customer skills and I am comfortable with spreadsheets. 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 8 months.