I had a really crummy week at work last week for reasons I won’t get into, but suffice it to say I’m tired of dealing with the same old BS that makes work difficult at times. It’s not something that bothers me 100 percent of the time, but it keeps rearing it’s ugly head.
BUT. I’m not just going to complain about it. I am finally doing something about it. Really.
No, I’m not quitting. I’m too practical to do something like that, and I’m a whore for my paycheck because it’s a pretty decent paycheck for what I do. I even enjoy it occasionally. I’m just finally working on plans for life beyond this job though, whenever that time may come.
My major challenge is that I have a very limited skill set. I’m really, really good at writing but not much else. Despite what my advisers may have told me in college, being able to write does not immediately open up a myriad of doors for you. Writing plus a few other skills like web design or expertise in a particular field can, but writing alone does not. So I’m working on adding some skills. My other challenge is having a work schedule that does not allow me to plan for things like night or weekend classes or seminars, etc.
That’s ok, I’m starting small.
The first thing I’ve done is check out a stack of books at the library to explore things I’m interested in. It seems a little third gradeish, but I need some ideas of what to pursue.
I’ve also enrolled in online courses at the local college and kicking myself for not thinking of doing that sooner. I knew I couldn’t commit to in-person courses, but why couldn’t I commit to something that’s done entirely on my own time? I mean, I get something like two weeks to complete each lesson — even I can work with that. The courses are not for credit, just to help me get proficient in other areas.
The Modern Love Machine and I also sat down last night to create a household budget, wherein we pay all our bills, commit to some serious savings but still have a little room to eat well and do some fun things. One of the savings funds we’ve created may or may not be dubbed ‘Exit Strategy.’
I’m considering making a visit to the local college’s career counseling center to help me explore some ideas. They have all kinds of aptitude and personality tests that help narrow things down for the undecided student, and I didn’t bother to take advantage of that service when I was actually in school. Better late than never, right?
Anyway, I’m writing about this all just to make myself accountable. I’m finally setting some career-related goals that I’m excited about, and I’m trying to do everything I can to follow through. I’ll probably write more about what I’m doing down the line, but for now, please share your own stories and career-related advice. I’m looking for inspiration š
Good on you lady. Your small step is actually a very big one – you've figured out that something needs to change. That's the beginning.
It's a shame there's not a (viable) job called "just writing when you feel like it". I would rock at that. (Ok, so I know I could become an author but, as I said, there's no *viable* job out there).
I'm really excited for you though – what kind of books did you check out? What areas are you looking at?
I think it's fantastic that you're doing this. Like you said, better late than never. I've taken some non-credit courses to help me hone my writing skills (I'm a copy editor by day), so I understand the desire to expand your talents beyond what you do for a living. I'm also hoping to take a photography course in the near future, but I imagine it'll have to wait until after the baby arrives.
Best of luck to you!
You're my inspiration! I need to do this same thing, and soon. My life is making me crazy and I think one of the main contributors to that is my job. I don't hate it, but I don't love it either. Just sort of 'Meh'. Not good for my soul!
Also, I love your new budget category!
First: So, so, SO proud of you for doing something about your situation. I hate people who bitch about their jobs constantly but never do anything to change it.
Second: I faced the same crisis when I got out of your field. Writing alone definitely does not open as many doors as you'd think, but what I do now is a nice, natural progression from where I was. Sorry to be vague, but I can give you more info one-on-one if you like.
Auntie: That's what I love about blogging! Writing about common goals helps to motivate/stay accountable.
How 'bout I look to you for inspiration instead? I should be so proactive.
Got get 'em!
I just lost my job last week so I am in the process of reinventing myself too. I have spent 3 years doing something that I thought I wanted to do and I'm taking my time before jumping into something else because I'm nervous about making the same mistake twice. I definitely know what I don't want to do, but whether or not what I think I want to do is what I want to do is another story. I know I'm young but 25 is not exactly spring chicken anymore. I've been out of college for 3 years and I feel like it's time I actually decide what the hell I want to do with myself that actually makes me feel like the hours I spend are worthwhile, you know? Hopefully we can both figure it out!
Despite what my advisers may have told me in college, being able to write does not immediately open up a myriad of doors for you.
I learned that lesson the hard way myself.
I decided to major in History because it teaches you how to write and research. Most of my adult life I'd been told "if you can write you'll find a job." Now I'm sans job.
I am right where you are. I also may or may not have a budget category called "I want to make a change and don't know what that means yet" but let's not tell anyone.
I know I can write damn well but am unsure how to make a go of it on my terms. Right now I have a "job" and not a "career" and am wanting to find my niche.
What scares me is the economy and how it has impacted my husband's profession. Right now my job has all the benefits and is a bit more stable so I am loathe to let go.
Anyway, I look forward to hearing about your journey and gaining some inspiration as well.
I love that you got career books from the library! š
good for you! Sometimes you just need to put it in writing.
I completely understand not being happy with your current situation and wanting to improve it. I did make the quit my job jump before the economy tanked and it took years to get back on track after stepping off course. That being said I learned lots about myself, what I'm good at doing, and what I like to do. Sometimes those things are different.
I also got a lot of fill-in-the-blank for dummies books on things like web and graphic design. What I found out is that I didn't really want to do those things. But it was very helpful in giving me other skills with which to get different jobs I could support myself with. And as silly as it sound I think one of the most helpful books for me was "What Color is Your Parachute." It is a good way to analyze what you like to do and why.
Good luck lady! Can't wait to hear how things work out.