Stirring the pot
I was recently laid off from my job, so have had quite a bit of time to think and reflect on the decisions I’ve made, my life’s path (thus far) and what I want to do with the rest of my life. If I’m frugal, I have enough money to last about five or six months. I should be able to find another job in that time span (if the economy and Fate both lend a helping hand), but the real question is - what kind of a job do I want?
Do I really want to return to the 9-to-5 grind, working my tail off for somebody else’s benefit? Or do I want to dial down my lifestyle and find an occupation which may not be as lucrative as my past career, but will give me a sense of accomplishment and true happiness? Lately, I’ve been leaning more to the latter than to the former. My friends tell me that I’m probably just licking my wounds because of being laid off, but I think it’s more than that. I haven’t been truly happy for a very long time now, and I suspect my dissatisfaction has a lot to do with how I earn my crust. I’m good at what I do, but it’s not very satisfying to me.
I could do volunteer work, but I suspect it will not pay the bills. Given the anemic state of my 401(k) plan, I know I’ll have to find gainful employment, but doing what? If any of you have been through something like this recently, I’d be very interested in hearing your thoughts, suggestions and observations. I’m at a crossroads, with no idea which path to follow. Any and all advice will be gratefully accepted.
May 17, 2009 at 5:28 pm
My mother is in the same spot as you. She was recently layed off after working for 30 years in the same industry without ever having been unemployed. So now she’d like to take some time to find something else she’d like to do for a living.
She’s going back to school (not sure for what). But she also has a massage therapy degree and has taken on some clients to help pay the bills.
If you have no financial worries, it’s a nice luxury to do some soul searching and finding an occupation that will be fulfilling.
May 17, 2009 at 6:07 pm
Hey this one takes a lot of soul searching, if you are a man of prayer, pray for guidance. If not find as many wise counselors as you can to help you in this dilemma. Out of pain can come beauty, hang strong and I will be praying that wonderful things come your way. Keep us posted I wish you well.
May 18, 2009 at 1:09 pm
I’d say listen to your inner thoughts and find something that really does make you happy, although not as lucrative…what’s money without happiness!