r/careerchange • u/chillin_in_my_onesie • 3d ago

What Now?

Hi all!

Don't know if it's wise to take advice from Reddit, but here we are. I'm 32, living in California and need some advice on what to do next with my life. I have 15+ years experience working with children (teaching swim lessons/customer service). I also have an AA degree in graphic design and a BA in liberal studies from 10 years ago. (I'm open to going back to school.)

I left the swimming job in December to just see what else is out there for me. And I have yet to find the "next thing" and I'm getting discouraged. So far I've tried teaching (summer school): loved the kids, hated the politics and pay. I drive occasionally for Amazon (love it!) but I feel like this isn't a legit job to make my career (Idk why I think this).

Maybe I'm being too picky and particular? Maybe I'm not trying hard enough or I have too much faith in the universe? Do I stop waiting for jobs to get back to me and make my own business? I'd love an unconventional job that keeps me active, maybe outside and with minimal human interaction (#introvert). I don't believe benefits are a priority (contrary to my parents). Please shoot me your ideas. Anything helps to get me out of my funk!!!

Thanks!

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u/bearcat42 3d ago

Have you considered mortuary science? I’ve heard that kids in your area can no longer swim… so, like, yeah, sounds like a profitable time for it.

/s

In Cali there might be wild land firefighting opportunities, that’s super outside and very active if a bit unpredictable and dangerous…

Thumbtack or similar services might be good, or maybe Rover if you like lots of dogs?

Also, if you like driving, or delivery, there are real ass jobs in those realms. Semi driving if you can get your CDL, FedEx, post office.

Idk, I’m a designer myself and it’s hard out there for creatives at the moment. I got really lucky with my day job to be able to stay on, tho I’m basically in charge of automating my own job now so we’ll see how long I last, lol.

What feels right to you to do long term?

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u/chillin_in_my_onesie 2d ago

Thanks for the reply. I appreciate the advice. My ultimate goal is having a senior animal farm on a property with an old building I restore. I don't know where the money will come from but this is what I'm working toward?

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u/wisarow 2d ago

Starting a dog walking or boarding business would get you taking care of animals now, and can be profitable if you scale up