Despite what your grandmother told you, life is not supposed to be a struggle. The same is true for making a career change. This doesn't mean you won't work hard to get the job of your dreams. We often forget that we can make things easier on ourselves so that the transition is not painful! Do these six things and you'll notice a huge difference right away.

1. Take your dream job for a test drive. Get a part-time job doing something related to your dream work, volunteer in a similar field, or job shadow someone who's already doing what you'd like to do. This is a no-risk way to try out your interests and a chance to experience a new profession knowing you've got the bills covered.

2. Find a transition buddy. It's much more enjoyable to go through a life transition knowing you've got someone else experiencing the same things as you.

3. Handle all of your unresolved issues first. Things left unhandled in your life (such as bills that are past due, conversations that need to happen, health issues that should be addressed, clutter that needs to be sorted through, etc.) are like weights you carry with you as you work on your goals. There is no need to burden yourself like this when a career change requires so much work as it is!

4. Be ready for setbacks. There will always be obstacles in your way. Realizing this ahead of time will allow you to handle setbacks with ease and see them as par for the course rather than as a reason to give up.

5. Reward yourself. Just because you haven't reached your final destination doesn't mean you can't enjoy yourself along the way. Stop and give yourself a treat for all that you've accomplished so far...it will go a long way in motivating you to keep going!

6. Be proud of the baby steps. They may feel insignificant but making a career change happen is nothing more than a series of these small steps put together.

Get excited about each of your accomplishments--everything from cleaning out your home to make room for your new life to signing up for a class at your local community college. It ALL counts.

Annemarie Segaric is a respected career change coach, motivational speaker, and the author of the pocket booklet, 107 Tips for Changing Your Career While Still Paying the Bills. Dread Monday mornings? Visit Annemarie's website and download your free career change toolkit today.