In a world where tech dominates, the urge to strip it back and return to the outdoors is strong in those that are choosing an office under the open sky, and it’s true that there are benefits of throwing in the traditional desk job towel.
For many, an outdoor career could be the refreshing change they need in order to achieve a more fulfilling and balanced life; in this article, we’ll be exploring the benefits of outdoor careers, the kind of outdoor jobs you could pursue, and how to transition into the great outdoors professionally.
The benefits of working outdoors
Improved physical and mental health advantages
Outdoor careers rarely rely on computers; the hard graft often has to come from you. This increase in physical activity can reduce the risks associated with the sedentary lifestyle that comes with desk jobs; these include cardiovascular disease, musculoskeletal disorders, and diabetes.
It’s not just your body that an outdoor career can support; it’s your mind, too. Many studies show that time spent outside can reduce stress and improve your mood, with time spent in nature a recommendation often made for those struggling to keep on top of their mental wellness. If you’re able to do this as part of your job, you’re able to reap the benefits on a regular basis!
Enhanced job satisfaction and motivation
The variety, autonomy, and connection to nature that an outdoor job can provide is far more conducive to job satisfaction for many. The removal of tech puts you more in touch with the task at hand, leaving you feeling accomplished by the end of the day (if a little at the mercy of the elements), and raring to go again tomorrow.
Exploring different types of outdoor jobs
Obviously, when we talk about outdoor jobs, we’re referring to a broad range of roles – from garden landscaper to an ecologist, they’ll all require a different set of skills. If you’re stuck for outdoor job ideas, here are a few to consider:
Environment and conservation
Ranger: Manage and protect national parks, nature reserves, and other wild areas.
Wildlife conservationist: Work to protect wildlife and their habitats.
Ecologist: Study and understand whole ecosystems.
Agriculture and land Management
Agricultural technician: Support farming operations in areas such as crop management and animal husbandry.
Gamekeeper: Manage wildlife on estates; usually for hunting and conservation purposes.
Landscape gardener: Get green fingered, designing and maintaining gardens, parks, and outdoor spaces.
Outdoor education and adventure
Activity instructor: Outdoor activity jobs include leading and instructing outdoor activities with both kids and adults.
Adventure tour guide: Lead tours and expeditions in outdoor environments, from hiking to wildlife safaris.
Construction
Land surveyor: Pop your hard hat on and measure and map land for construction and development projects.
Tree surgeon: Care for and maintaining trees, including pruning, planting, and removal.
Groundskeeper: Maintain outdoor spaces such as parks, sports fields, and golf courses; neat mower lines may not be optional!
Heritage and tourism
Tourism officer: Promote outdoor tourism destinations; an excuse to travel, or just use your local knowledge.
Archaeologist: The only way to travel through time; conduct excavations and studies in outdoor locations to uncover historical artefacts.
Outdoor event coordinator: Organise and manage outdoor events, such as festivals, fairs, and sports events.
Transitioning to an outdoor career
Before you make the leap, you should take a careful and considered approach to a potential career change; you may feel desperate to escape that office, but you need to ensure that it’s the right move for you. Research is key; for example, you may need to acquire relevant qualifications, or gain experience through volunteering.
Preparations for switching go an outdoor career could include:
Exploring the possibilities: Find out what outdoor careers are actually out there, and see what appeals.
Compare your options: What salaries are doable for you, for example? Don’t forget, if it’s a totally new career, you might find you’re starting at the bottom, so prepare for that.
Understanding what learning or skills you’d need: If you find you’re lacking in some areas, could you do a course alongside your day job for a while?
Break down the steps you’d need to take to reach your outdoor career: Knowing what steps you need to take towards your new life outdoors can make the transition seem more manageable, and you’ll know what you need to do next.
To conclude
If you’re feeling stuck in your desk job, and are wondering what else could be out there, we’d encourage you to explore your outdoor options. Yes, you may find muscles you didn’t realise you had, and you’re a little more in touch with the weather than you may be used to, but the physical and mental benefits speak for themselves.