Changing careers at 8 years into a job, is it realistic? - what worked for you?

After 8 years as an event coordinator I am thinking about moving into a different field. Any experience at all would help. My family is supportive but nervous. Has anyone made a similar move?

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

I began with informational chats, then a short online course, then a related entry-level role. It took about 14 months.