Hello Mentor S2 EP5 | Dr Aen (Alluskin) - #OTW to Changing Careers in Malaysia
Stream Hello Mentor Episode 5 for a motivational boost and practical tips on navigating your own career journey!
By Kimberly Chang on 2024-10-22 at 8:22 AM
Updated on 2024-10-22 at 8:41 AM
How to Successfully Change Careers in Malaysia: Insights from Dr. Aen of Alluskin
This week, we're diving into the awe-inspiring journey of Dr. Aen, the innovative founder of Alluskin. Imagine leaving a stable career in medicine to venture into the dynamic world of skincare entrepreneurship—Dr. Aen did just that! Her story is a powerful testament to following your passion and embracing change. In this episode, she shares the pivotal moments that ignited her entrepreneurial spirit, the hurdles she overcame, and the unique strategies that led Alluskin to success.
Dr. Aen’s transition from healthcare to skincare is extraordinary. Discover how she leveraged her medical expertise to create groundbreaking products, and the support system that helped her every step of the way. This episode is packed with invaluable lessons and advice for anyone contemplating a major career change. Don’t miss Dr. Aen’s insights into turning challenges into opportunities and making a successful career transition. Tune in now for a captivating conversation that will inspire you to pursue your dreams and achieve your entrepreneurial goals!
Making the Leap: Why Dr. Aen Left Medicine to Pursue Entrepreneurship
Leaving behind a career in medicine to start a skincare business wasn’t an easy decision for Dr. Aen. She had spent years studying medicine and working as a house officer, but over time, she realised her true passion lay elsewhere.
“I enjoyed being a doctor, but I couldn’t see myself doing it forever,” Dr. Aen shared. “The uncertainty made me feel stuck. So I took a leap of faith into entrepreneurship.”
Her transition highlights the challenges many Malaysians face when considering a career change—uncertainty, fear of judgement, and the pressure to conform to societal expectations.
Overcoming the Fear of Career Change
Switching careers can feel risky, especially when leaving a stable profession. Dr. Aen emphasises the importance of careful financial planning to cushion the impact of a career switch.
“Before quitting my job, I saved enough to cover six months of expenses,” she said. “Financial security gave me the confidence to explore my passion without worrying about money.”
For those thinking about a career switch in Malaysia, Dr. Aen recommends building an emergency fund and starting a side hustle to test new interests.
Managing Mental and Emotional Challenges During a Career Switch
The emotional toll of changing careers can be significant. Dr. Aen recalls moments of doubt and stress during her transition to business.
“It wasn’t easy at first. I felt like I was disappointing my family by leaving medicine,” she shared. “But eventually, their support made all the difference.”
Having a strong support system—whether family, friends, or a professional network—can provide the emotional resilience needed to navigate a career change. If you're looking for a community to grow and connect with like-minded individuals, consider joining our young leaders community, where ambitious professionals come together to learn, share, and thrive.
Learning the Ropes: Starting a Business from Scratch
Although she had no background in business, Dr. Aen embraced the learning curve. From product development to managing customer feedback, she encountered multiple challenges along the way.
“I had zero knowledge about running a business,” she admitted. “I made mistakes, but each one taught me something valuable.”
Her advice? Take small steps and learn from mistakes. Leveraging her medical expertise, Dr. Aen created products designed for sensitive skin, ensuring her skincare brand stood out in a competitive market.
Building a Brand That Aligns with Your Passion
One of the keys to Dr. Aen’s success is staying true to her mission. Alluskin focuses on education and skin health, rather than just selling products.
“I started by sharing educational content on social media,” she explained. “People appreciated that we were adding value beyond products.”
Understanding how your work style and strengths align with your new venture is essential. Simple tools like online personality quizzes can help you identify your strengths and guide your career switch by matching you with opportunities that fit your personality and skills.
Balancing Personal Growth with Business Demands
Running a business requires more than just passion—it demands effective people management. Dr. Aen highlights the importance of emotional intelligence when dealing with customers and employees.
“Managing people isn’t easy,” she shared. “You have to stay calm and offer solutions, even when things get stressful.”
Balancing personal growth and business demands is crucial, especially during the early stages of a career switch. Dr. Aen’s story illustrates that success comes from persistence, adaptability, and continuous self-improvement.
Conclusion: Make the Career Switch, but Plan Ahead
Dr. Aen’s journey from medicine to entrepreneurship demonstrates that career change in Malaysia is possible with careful planning and the right mindset. Her experience offers a roadmap for anyone considering a career switch—save up, start small, and embrace continuous learning.
“If you’re thinking about switching careers, don’t be afraid to try,” she advised. “Prepare yourself financially and mentally, but don’t wait too long—just start.”
Whether you're exploring new career opportunities or starting a business, understanding your strengths and staying adaptable will be essential for long-term success.
Looking to switch careers or find a new role that aligns with your skills? Discover exciting opportunities at Hiredly!
About Hello Mentor
Hello Mentor is a podcast offering candid conversations on entrepreneurship, career growth, and ambition. Each episode features inspiring individuals who share personal experiences and actionable advice.
Catch all episodes on Spotify or YouTube for more inspiration and career guidance from industry leaders!
By Kimberly Chang on 2024-10-22 at 8:22 AM