Break Out! Seven Ways to Quit the Cubicle

When Robert Propst initially conceived the cubicle, he never imagined it would take over the modern workplace. Cubicles weren’t intended to be fixed, immovable cages. And, we were never meant to sit quietly in one for eight or more hours a day. If your career has you trapped in a cube, you could wait for the day you’re finally promoted to an office (which, let’s face it is only a slightly larger box). Or, you could make a break for it. Train for a career that gets you up off that Aeron office chair and really moves you.

Stretch it Out

Physical therapists help people recover motion and mobility lost due to illness or injury. Whether you’re lifting patients out of bed or hauling out equipment, you’ll definitely get your workout at this job. Your training starts in an accredited physical therapy program. Most therapists need a master’s degree–all must have a state license to practice. You’ll gain a career with median salaries at $72,790, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

Play a Little

Elementary school teachers use play and exploration to help kids learn basic skills. Employing learning stations and manipulatives in your teaching ensures you’ll be up and about right along with your students. To get in on the game, you’ll need to go through an approved teacher education program. If you already have your bachelor’s degree, alternative programs exist that can fast track your certification. Elementary school teachers earned a median salary of $49,330 in 2008.

Make it Sizzle

Slicing, dicing, chopping, stirring–working as a chef means you are constantly in motion. If all the action doesn’t get your heart pumping, the fast, often frenetic pace of a professional kitchen will. Culinary training can get you cooking. A deep commitment to your craft can help you rise through the ranks. Median wages for chefs and head cooks are $38,770.

Seek the Truth

Forensic science technicians work on crime scenes and in labs collecting and analyzing the evidence that can make or break criminal cases. It may not be as glamorous as it is portrayed on television, but the work is far from boring. It is also a career with major potential, says the BLS–31 percent growth is forecast through 2016. Before you put on your lab coat, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in forensic technology or a related field. You can expect median salaries of $49,860.

Show You Care

Registered nurses work in hospitals, clinics, and doctors’ offices. In the course of caring for your patients, you will be bending, lifting, and reaching. The entire profession is on the move, too, with job growth forecast at 23 percent. One out of five nurses works part-time, and round-the-clock care can mean flexible scheduling. The path to this career is a nurse-training program that often leads to an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in nursing. Median registered nurse salaries are $62,450.

Make the Call

College textbook sales reps spend their days strolling tree-lined campuses. Pharmaceutical reps log their miles in the hallways of hospitals. While the scenery may differ, the one thing all outside sales jobs have in common is that they get you out into the world. A college degree is quickly becoming an entry-level requirement for many sales jobs. A business or technical degree can help you land more lucrative jobs. Median salaries ($51,330 for wholesale and manufacturing reps) rise significantly (to $70,200) if you are selling technical or scientific products.

Take the Lead

Animal lovers looking to break away from a desk job may find happiness as veterinary technicians. Vet techs need to go through a two- to four-year training program. You also need to get licensed in your state. Median earnings are $28,900. The top-paying states for techs are New York, Illinois, and California–all with median earnings around $35,000.

Keep it Clean

Dental hygienists may do much of their work seated, but they are hardly chained to a cubicle. As a hygienist, you’ll work with patients to improve the health of their teeth and gums. With median salaries of $66,570, flexible scheduling and excellent pay are distinct advantages of the profession. You can get started with an associate’s degree or a bachelor’s degree from an accredited dental hygiene program.

Stop Sitting Still

It’s high time you kicked the cube. Your first move should be to investigate your career training options. You may be surprised to know just how many schools offer flexible schedules and online courses that allow you to keep your day job while you’re in school.