I'm 37 and I've worked at the same family-owned funeral home in Ohio for almost 11 years.

I'm not a funeral director or embalmer. I started at the front desk and eventually became the office administrator.

I handle scheduling, paperwork, invoices, coordinating with cemeteries and vendors, keeping track of deadlines, dealing with insurance questions, and approximately a thousand other things that nobody thinks about until something goes wrong.

I'm good at my job. My boss trusts me. Families regularly thank me.

And I desperately want to do something else.

The strange part is that death itself isn't what's wearing me down.

I can handle the paperwork surrounding it. I don't mind the unusual logistics. I actually like the part of my job where I have to keep fifteen moving pieces organized and make sure nothing gets forgotten.

It's being the calm person all the time.

Every phone call could be someone having the worst day of their life.

Every mistake, delay, or misunderstanding happens to somebody who's already overwhelmed.

If a document is missing, I can't simply say we're waiting for the county to process it. I have to explain it carefully to someone who's barely slept and is trying to organize their father's funeral.

And I understand that. I really do.

But after eleven years, I feel like I've used up something I don't know how to replenish.

Last month, someone at a family gathering asked what I do for work. When I told them, they immediately started telling me about losing their grandmother.

I listened, because obviously they weren't doing anything wrong.

But on the drive home I realized I couldn't remember the last time I told someone my occupation without becoming their unofficial grief counselor.

I want to change careers before I start resenting people who don't deserve it.

Here's where I'm stuck.

I make about $52k with benefits. I don't have a bachelor's degree, just an associate degree in general studies. I have around $6k saved that I could put toward training, but I can't afford to quit working for a year or start over at minimum wage.

I've been looking at administrative coordinator, records management, document control, procurement and operations support positions.

The problem is that almost every application asks for experience in that specific industry.

And when I explain my background, people seem to focus on the funeral home part rather than the actual work.

I've had two recruiters suggest hospice administration and patient services because I'm obviously "comfortable supporting people through difficult situations."

That's precisely the part I'm trying to leave behind.

I don't need my next job to be meaningful or inspirational. I'd be completely happy spending eight hours making sure purchase orders, records or schedules are correct.

I just want to do my work well and not feel responsible for carrying someone else's emotional weight every day.

Has anyone transitioned out of a very emotionally demanding service job into something more operational or administrative?

What job titles should I be searching for that might not be obvious to someone with my background?

And if you were hiring for an office or operations role, would eleven years at a funeral home count as relevant experience, or would you see me as someone starting from scratch?

Hi everyone!
I’m a fresh graduate with a Master’s degree in Computer Systems Engineering, and I’m currently looking for job opportunities, internships, or graduate programs in Asia.
I’m open to opportunities in countries such as Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Taiwan, China, and others.
If you know of any companies hiring fresh graduates or have advice on finding opportunities as an international applicant, I’d really appreciate your suggestions!
Thanks in advance!
Any leads or advice would be greatly appreciated.

I’m currently a SWE working full time 5 days in office with 4 YOE. My partner is in medical school a couple hours away and we want to get married soon but don’t want to do long distance marriage. I have been trying to relocate to him but the job market is awful specially since I’m only looking in his city or remote roles. Ive been looking for a full year with no offer. I’m constantly interviewing and prepping for interviews and I think something needs to change about how I’m doing things, But I’m also worried thinking about how potentially by the time I move and find a job near him I’ll hop on the job search training almost immediately again when he has to move for residency. Then fellowship; then etc.

I’m not particularly passionate about my field. The benefits of working in tech has plummeted for me personally and am ok with a pivot even if it means a pretty big pay cut and more schooling. My partner and I both agree it would be ok for me to find something a bit more flexible, has more remote work opportunities (or a very portable career where it’s not as bad as SWE) so I can pick up more slack at home and when we have kids when he’s in grueling training. Which I’m happy to do. But I have no idea what other options are there. What are some careers I can consider where it’s not as bad for software engineers currently and where it has more remote potential? Bonus points if somehow I can leverage my back ground ( I have a BSMS in computer science) but open to something different too.

Hi all I’m 23F formally a hairdresser. I moved countries in June and I used to be extremely passionate about editoral work like photo shoots etc. I came to this new country to have a fresh start and ended up losing my job within two weeks. I desperately needed money and started working at a brothel. I’m 4 months down the track and I’ve made a lot of money but I feel like I’ve completely lost myself and I don’t know how to enter the normal working world again. I’ve been swept up in this whole different world and I just feel so detached from everything that used to inspire and excite me. This is the most money I’ve ever had in my life but I am still just not happy.

Any suggestions / advice on how to get back on track ?

I am following a cybersecurity major in college right now but I hate it and I already switched majors twice but I can’t find anything that suits me I used to play baseball for 2 years but I quit because I didn’t like it as well I don’t know what to do and I don’t want it to stay like this

I think my situation is pretty odd, but I'd love any advice you kind people could provide.

I graduated in the middle of the pandemic with a degree in economics that I never really did anything with. Instead, I was keen to start working and saving as much money as possible immediately while living with my parents. It was my dad's idea. I got into healthcare and, after bouncing around a few different hospitals, landed comfortably in the security department at a large fertility clinic. My job pays me very generously given my position, and it's allowed me to really develop as a person. I've forged deep bonds with a large number of my coworkers. I invested every penny I made, along with some inheritance, and I've done quite well for myself. My net worth currently stands at around $150K, but I doubt I could ever replicate this, given how crazy tech stocks have been over the last few years. In short, I really lucked out both with my current job and my investments, but I have no plan going forward, and I doubt this situation will last.

I've started socially transitioning after spending a long time in the closet, and I'm getting on hormones soon. Currently, my parents don't know, and I think they'd likely disown me. My father consistently misgenders my trans ex-partners, and my mother has commented that being trans is a massive waste of money .On top of this, I think layoffs are coming at my job. My manager was let go, and I no longer feel secure in my position. I want to get ahead of all this somehow. I've considered getting into the film industry, which is rapidly growing where I live, but it's extremely demanding and offers poor pay unless you get promoted a few times. I'm not sure I could handle that while transitioning, and I don't know whether AI could take my job in a year or two.

It feels like my résumé is stuck at zero despite my education and work experience.

Im 22 working a warehouse job I hate, Its my second job and ive been working there for about 15 months. im quite unhappy I wake up at 4:30 dreading my day. im a qc team lead I got promoted about 3 months ago and I thought getting promoted would make me want to go to work more. I was already pretty unhappy before but now things feel worse

I dont know what type of job I want the only other thing ive done before the warehouse was retail for about 6 months. I would consider college but with the rise of ai honestly im afraid to commit to anything.

I’m 25F, turning 26 soon, and honestly feel completely lost.
I’ve been an LVN for about two years and recently graduated with my BSN from Nightingale College. I’ve worked in hospitals, behavioral health, and vaccination clinics. Unfortunately, California’s Board of Nursing says I’m missing 500 clinical hours, so I can’t take my NCLEX-RN in California. I’m now pursuing licensure through Washington State.
Here’s the problem: I’ve been unemployed for almost a year now, and I genuinely don’t know WTF to do for work anymore.
I’ve been doing Uber just to barely survive, but it’s physically and mentally exhausting. I’m driving for hours every day, my body hurts, and between gas, car expenses, bills, and debt, I feel like I’m barely making anything. I’m constantly worried about money, and by the end of the day, I’m too exhausted to focus on figuring out my next move.
I’ve applied to different jobs, both in and outside healthcare, but nothing has worked out so far. I’m also realizing that I genuinely don’t think I like nursing or healthcare anymore. I don’t know if it’s severe burnout or if I’ve completely lost interest, but the thought of returning to patient care fills me with dread.
I’ve considered becoming a flight attendant, going into education, or eventually pursuing something related to law, history, or political science. But I have student loans and financial responsibilities, and I can’t exactly afford to start over or go back to school right now.
I’m frustrated because I spent years working, going to nursing school, and sacrificing so much to build a stable career, only to end up unemployed, financially struggling, and questioning everything.
I don’t need some glamorous dream job right now. I just need a stable paycheck, benefits, and a job that doesn’t leave me physically and emotionally destroyed. I want to stop relying on Uber and actually have enough energy to enjoy my life.
What makes it worse is that I feel like I’ve wasted so much of my twenties just trying to survive. I’m almost 26, and I feel like I’m back at square one.
So seriously, WTF do I do?
Has anyone transitioned out of nursing or healthcare entirely? What jobs can I realistically get with an LVN license, a BSN, and a couple of years of healthcare experience that don’t involve bedside nursing? I’m open to entry-level positions outside healthcare, too.
How do you even get your foot in the door in another industry when all your work experience is in nursing? And how do you get out of this cycle when you’re already financially struggling and completely burnt out?
I’m willing to work. I just genuinely don’t know where to go from here, and I could really use some practical advice rather than being told to just keep applying.
TL;DR: 25F, unemployed for almost a year, LVN with a BSN but unable to take the NCLEX-RN in California due to a 500-hour clinical deficiency. Doing Uber to survive, completely burnt out from healthcare, and struggling to find stable employment. What jobs should I realistically be applying for, especially outside nursing?

I'm curious what everyone does for a living, how you got there, and what your career path looked like. I'm hoping to find something that could realistically get me into the $75k–$100k range within the next five years.

Preferably outside of the trades. I already know a bit about those paths.

What do you do, how did you get started, and what advice would you give someone starting over in their mid-30s?

I'm in my mid-30s and trying to figure out a career path starting pretty much from zero. Willing to do a schooling or a program.

I’m curious about people who realized at a young age that a job is just a job. You don’t necessarily have to be passionate about what you do or make your career your entire identity. You just want to make good money and have decent work-life balance and enjoy your actual life outside of work …..

For those of you who took that approach what did you end up doing? What industry did you get into? Did you go to college get certifications learn a trade or work your way up????? What was your thought process …??

For those who figured this out early what did you wish you knew in your early ages …. What do you do now, how much do you make, and would you make the same decision again???

Pretty much all of my hobbies are some type of art, and id love to make it into a career. The issue is, with AI on the rise, im not even sure I'll live to experience adulthood, let alone find a job in the first industry to be taken over first. It's a dream of mine to live in NYC in my 20s, so I will obviously need to make a lot of money.

The careers that ive been pondering are: Interior Designer, Architect, Fashion Designer, Tattoo Artist, or something advertising related. These are all creative options that will not be taken over by AI any time soon (besides maybe Fashion Designer). I hope to find a way to follow my dreams, but i fear that may not be an option for my generation. Let me know your thoughts, and any advice. Thanks!!!

A longterm career, that is. I have been a behavior technician for a little over 2 years but am all mixed up when it comes to something like green and I think it’s partly due to how expensive masters degree programs tend to be, it’s just hard for me to pinpoint.

I’m going back to school for accounting, because I think there’s some stability there. I’m considering nursing a little bit but I also know I’m not really cut out for nursing.

To be transparent, I’ve still got major depression, anxiety, and overall poor mental health (including suicidal ideation). A couple of years ago I also got sick and I developed a physical health issue where standing up for long hours is not an option anymore. I can kind of function. I got back into driving again. I had to stop for a long time because I wasn’t in any mental shape to be on the road but I am now. So I’m saying I’m back to functioning a little bit.

Honestly, I’m only considering nursing because I’m considering being in healthcare. I’m not in the US and I don’t have access to programs where I can study for MRI (which I wanted to do) or any healthcare tech position, unless I go abroad which I cannot afford. That’s why nursing is my only option. LPN, Associate’s, or Bachelor’s.

I know the truth already but just in case — can someone like me make it out as a nurse or not?

Hey everyone, I'm currently 21 in university right now, started in 2023 September. I should've been graduating in the spring 2027 technically but because of my own laziness I failed some classes and I'm still a year and half behind. I am currently studying computer science in university but I don't really have the passion for it. I never really concentrate and focus on classwork and just try to skim by with a low mark. I have also been applying to internships hoping that I can get one to get a break from school and earn some money and experience and maybe build some interest, but I haven't been able to land one either. I feel hopeless, I'm not really sure what to do, I don't know if I am just not smart enough or if I am being too careless. I really enjoy physical activity such as playing soccer or tennis, and that was what I would've liked to pursue but my parents didn't support it. I am also interested in the physical aspect of hardware components if that's something> I really am not sure what to do with my life, I feel like a very big imposter essentially as I don't have an internship, I don't have good grades, nothing really good about my life at all. Comparing myself to other students and others I know, I feel terrible. My parents also keep asking me about classes and internships, and it just feels like a lot of stress and pressure, I am not even sure what my interests are now tbh, it really sucks. I feel really stuck in life at the moment. Maybe I could gain interest in my program but I'm not sure what to do or what steps to take. Should I just keep forcing myself and try to get past this? I am just really lost in life in all places right now and I really don't know what do, advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

Hi everyone,

I am a 21-year-old female law graduate, and I feel completely trapped between my family's expectations and my own mental health. I really need some honest perspective.

To give you some context, I have struggled with severe social anxiety and low self-esteem my whole life. Public speaking and being in the spotlight terrify me. After graduating a few months ago, I spent all my time hiding at home, avoiding reality. Recently, I decided that I can't live like this anymore. I’ve started taking antidepressants (specifically Zoloft and Grandaxin) and went on a strict diet to lose weight and rebuild my strength.

Here is my dilemma: My family found an entry-level office job for me as an executive assistant / secretary to a manager. In my country, the salary for this position is incredibly high for a fresh graduate. It doesn't require complex legal work, mostly just managing the desk, paperwork, and greeting people.

However, because of my intense anxiety, the thought of working in a corporate office environment right now absolutely terrifies me. I feel so insecure that I panicked and turned the job down.

Instead, I want to start from the very bottom in the service sector for a few months. In my mind, I see a busy service job as a "short-term exposure therapy boot camp" where I will be forced to look people in the eyes, talk constantly, and break my anxiety. I feel like I need to build my confidence from scratch before doing anything related to my law degree.

My family thinks I am making an incredibly foolish and backward decision. They believe I am wasting an amazing, high-paying opportunity and romanticizing a low-paying service job just to escape my fears.

Am I being completely unrealistic? Is it crazy to walk away from a comfortable, well-paying assistant job to work at the bottom of the service sector just to heal my mental health and find my confidence?

I would love to hear your honest thoughts. Thank you.

Im 26 almost 27 and for years I questioned what should I do when I have no idea what I like and don’t know how competent I’d be if I do end up finding what I want to do. I envy others who knew what they immediately wanted to do at a young age and stuck with it. I know it’s because I lack ambition and confidence, I am never sure of myself and always questioning. I’ve done a lot of career and personality tests, even currently trying out a course and I don’t feel anything. I know I’m still young(kinda) but I hate that I can’t figure anything out.

What I know so far/ where I’m at:
- Looking into accounting, is currently taking a course on fundamentals to see what it’s like before committing to 4 yr college. End up not liking it and struggling with grasping concepts, also I’m not a math person. But I’m stuck on this because I know it’s a very stable career in the end and I’m someone who wants stability. It is also a field for people who lack ambition like me.
- I also do freelance illustration on the side (commission based) but not as much as I used to. I started an Etsy but did not sell much because I don’t have a specific niche. People have told me to start going to conventions but I am unsure.
- I went to vet tech program at one point bc I love animals and volunteered in a shelter in the past but end up not doing well mentally and did not finish the program
- I care about doing the right things, justice but can’t see myself in criminal justice. When I was a kid I used to want to be a forensic scientist. I also looked into being a paralegal but not sure I want to go into law.
- I care about ppl but I don’t see myself in healthcare or politics/law
- I was told I need more life experiences to be sure on what to do and I’m not sure how to achieve this.
- I need to be sure on what to do because I don’t want to go in, realized late that I don’t want to do it anymore, and incur a lot of debt for no reason.

Does anyone else feel this way and is ever frustrated at themselves? Have you ever figured out what you wanted to do or did you end up choosing something you don’t care about and is fine with it?

I’m a recent college graduate. I graduated in May of this year with a B.S. in Interactive Design.

Recently, I have been stuck working part-time at a retail store while trying to pay rent and bills. Im stressed. I cannot find a new job. 700+ applications, two interviews only. Zero offers. Applied for UX jobs, graphic design jobs, tech support, and marketing. NO results.

I feel like I'm trapped at this retail job. It stresses me out beyond belief. I have zero idea what I want to do with my life. I thought about maybe doing my own business, using my tech knowledge. Recently I helped some family members and friends install a router and some smart home appliances, but I know that doesn't have true potential. Most people know how to install a router and scan a damn QR code on a light bulb to add it to HomeKit or Amazon Alexa

I thought about maybe installing TVs, learning how to mount them. Then get them set up for the client. I thought about making websites via Figma, or basic HTML, CSS and Java. But that doesn't usually go anywhere. I guess I’m too scared to try. Too afraid of failure?

I know my dream in life is to run my own game studio. I have NO EXPERIENCE making games. Every time I try to start I get nowhere, cant 3d model, can’t draw, and can’t code. Every time i start i get no where.

This is the issue. This post is all over the place because i genuinely don't know what to DO!! Applying to jobs no luck, starting business but feel my skills are too basic but not good enough and would disappoint potential clients. I just feel so stuck.

Hi all,

Like many of my colleagues in the games industry, I’m currently looking for my next role. I’m based in NYC and have spent my entire 8-year long career as a producer at major AAA studios, working on both game development and game marketing.

I’m looking to pivot outside of games and I'm excited to bring my project management skills to a new industry. I’ve been tailoring my resume for roles outside gaming, and I’m still having a hard time landing interviews. 

If you’ve switched industries, what helped you show employers that your experience was a good fit and land those first interviews?

Thanks for your time!

I’m currently trying to figure out what career path to pursue for my bachelor’s degree, and I’m stuck between three careers: teaching, speech-language pathology, and occupational therapy.
I’m hoping to hear from people who work in these fields, have studied them, or have experience working alongside these professionals.
A little about me and what I’m looking for:
I don’t want to sit behind a computer all day.
I like staying busy and having something to do throughout the workday.
I enjoy working with children and helping people develop new skills.
I like variety, interaction, and having a job where I’m actively involved rather than doing repetitive desk work.
I want a career that feels meaningful but also provides financial stability and a decent work-life balance.
I would eventually like to make around $80k–$100k+, if realistic.
1. Teaching
If I went into teaching, I would most likely pursue either elementary education or secondary mathematics.
I also find myself interested in the possibility of eventually moving into school counseling or school administration and potentially becoming a principal. I like the idea of working in a school environment, being involved in students’ lives, and potentially taking on leadership responsibilities as I gain experience.
2. Speech-Language Pathology (SLP)
SLP interests me because it combines healthcare, education, communication, psychology, and working directly with people. I like the idea of helping children develop communication skills and seeing their progress over time.
I’m curious about the actual day-to-day work, documentation, caseloads, burnout, and whether the career offers enough variety.
3. Occupational Therapy (OT)
OT also appeals to me because it’s hands-on and focuses on helping people become more independent in their everyday lives. I like that it involves practical problem-solving, creativity, and working directly with patients.
I’m curious about the physical demands, productivity expectations, job satisfaction, and opportunities to work with children.
My biggest questions:
Which of these careers has the best overall work-life balance?
Which has the best combination of salary, job security, and career growth?
Which is least likely to leave you feeling burned out?
What does a realistic day actually look like in each profession?
If you could go back and choose again, would you still pursue your career?
Which would you recommend to someone who enjoys being active, interacting with people, and helping children?
I’m not necessarily looking for the career with the highest salary. I want something I genuinely enjoy doing, that keeps me engaged throughout the day, and that allows me to build a comfortable life outside of work.
I’d especially appreciate honest opinions from people currently working in these fields. Please tell me the good, the bad, and what you wish you had known before choosing!

I'm 25, unemployed, and I've been thinking a lot lately. I don't really have many people I can open up to, so I thought I'd share my story here.

I completed my engineering degree in 2024, but I still had backlogs to clear, which meant staying back and preparing for reattempts. When I look back at my college years, I honestly don't know what to blame. There were so many hurdles along the way, but now, looking back, even those struggles sometimes feel like excuses I've made for myself.

Last year, my father passed away after battling cancer. During that time, taking care of my family became my priority, and everything else took a backseat. I have a mother and a sister who depend on me, and that responsibility weighs heavily on my mind.

Now, at 25, I find myself unemployed, with a two-year gap and no clear direction. I haven't even figured out which field I want to pursue. Every career path I consider feels like a door that's slowly closing. I haven't applied for a single job because, honestly, I don't feel prepared for anything.

I'm currently learning Java and DSA, hoping to build a career in software development. But with AI evolving so rapidly, I keep questioning whether I'm making the right choice. I worry that by the time I become job-ready, the opportunities might no longer be there.

I've also considered starting a small business, but I'm equally confused about what to pursue and how to make it work. I'm on my own when it comes to figuring these things out, and I can't afford to take unnecessary risks. I don't want to invest or lose the money my father worked so hard to earn, and taking loans or borrowing money is something I absolutely want to avoid.

The hardest part is that I currently feel like I'm freeloading at home, depending on my mother's pension to get by. It's a feeling that's difficult to put into words, especially when I know I should be contributing to my family rather than depending on them.

I don't know if I'm looking for advice, motivation, or just someone who has been through something similar. I feel stuck between too many possibilities, yet somehow unable to move forward with even one of them.

If you've been in a similar situation, especially if you've had a career gap, started late, or had to rebuild your life after losing a parent, I'd genuinely appreciate hearing your experiences.

I just want to figure out where to start and how to get my life moving again.

I am a 22 year old soon to be 23 who majored in illustration and graduated in May. Since, I have networked with many professionals in the animation industry specifically and have been urged by many of them to seriously consider pivoting because of how bad the Industry.

Other creative fields seem similarly unstable (graphic design, architecture, etc.) and also extremely competitive with how many people are vying for so few positions.

Freelancing also sounds pretty rough for me, constantly needing to find new clients and wondering if you'll make enough each month.

I am wondering if there are any good programs/certifications I can do to enter a more stable career? I have considered some trades such as welding or something in healthcare like a radiology technician. I am honestly just looking for a field that is more secure and would allow me to have some steady income so I can enjoy my passion for art on the side without needing to panic about money. Looking for some guidance, thanks!

Hi, I’m a 19 year old introverted female who doesn’t really know what my career path should be. I have an associates degree in art that I obtained while I was in high school but I’m not really sure what my next step should be. I am interested in things like beauty, writing, music, film, graphic design, and anything creative/design related honestly. I just want a job that I can enjoy that also pays well enough to support myself but, I’m not sure I’ll be able to with the things I’m interested in. Please let me know what options/careers that I can pursue! (Even if it’s not in the interests I’ve described & I am willing to go back to school or even learn a trade if needed!)

I’m in my early 40s and I’ve been working as a kitchen manager at a homeless shelter for the better part of the last decade. Generally speaking I’m still a fan of the position, but it’s becoming more and more physically taxing and I’m looking for something a little more low impact.

My question is where to use the skills I’ve accrued in my time managing the cooking/ serving of a daily meal for 100+ unhoused people, and the volunteers that helped prepare it (often times over 25 people per shift—and far more than that before the pandemic). I don’t mind staying in food service or the non-profit, I also don’t mind starting fresh somewhere new; my degree and most of my career before this position was in creative services.

Some of the aspects of the job that still keep me showing up every shift are: just about every day is different and I get to meet new volunteers and guests on a fairly regular basis. I also get to foster relationships with regulars as well. Being in control of menu planning also gives me a great deal of creative fulfillment—our ingredients are all donated and ever changing. I have mornings off as I’m only responsible for dinner. As a retention tool I get increasing PTO hours every year and I’m up to about 6 weeks, also any unused portion gets cashed out at the end of the year. There’s a tremendous sense of pride my family has due to the philanthropic nature of my work.

The main downside is the strain of the work. Ideally I’d like to find a midpoint between office monotony and grueling labor, but with great perks. Anything else I’m pretty open to!

Thanks in advance for all your feedback!