Feeling the need for a change of direction in life

[whatistheplan]

Hi, can anyone give me any advice/encouragement?

I've recently got back from a Church weekend away with younger children, I had an amazing time and it's made me really consider a lot of things, mainly whether I am doing the right thing with my life. I love volunteering, I have worked with people in other roles but it's the doing something for someone/a group that really needs it and not expecting to be paid that makes it for me, probably selfish in a way but I get as much out of it as I put in.

So, I really want to give up work and volunteer in a few things, mainly with the Church, to make a difference. I'm not a career person, I know this, employment stresses me out and I haven't ever pin-pointed why although I enjoy my current job as much as possible. I am also trying to conceive at the moment and I want to be able to stay home with my baby when the time comes.

So, this is all perfect but then reality strikes. Money would be too tight if I did this, we would need an extra £100-£200 per month. I thought about working a couple of shifts a week, just to get the extra cash ecessary to make life comfortable rather than a struggle.

I worry that people will think I am crazy, but I know my talent lies in voluntary work and children, I just think they will think I am wasting my life :(

Has anyone ever done this, how can I make ends meet and cope with any negativity and tough times? My husband is very supportive. I've felt like this for a couple of years but this weekend has just made it more obvious. I am considering it very prayerfully but need some more opinions.

Sorry if this is too much of a vague post

[queenbathsheba]

What about the children's society. Christian charity, if you volunteer they may eventually offer you a part time paid role, best of both worlds.

[whatistheplan]

Thanks, I hadn't heard of the children's society, I will look into it :)

[whatistheplan]

Ah now I have google it I recognise the logo, just having a browse of the site now

[queenbathsheba]

They do a lot of work with looked after children, such as advocacy, adoption and fostering. It's a national charity so they will almost certainly have some activity happening near to you.

[queenbathsheba]

I hope you find something soon. It's strange how volunteering seems more rewarding isn't it. Although I think the balance of the right work for a little pay is good too

[whatistheplan]

Thanks, it is definitely the sort of thing I am interested in

[queenbathsheba]

It is quite difficult to find paid employment with children unless you want to work in early ed or child minding. Keep us posted and good luck

[whatistheplan]

Thanks, it's definitely voluntary work i want to do, am considering the option of a couple of shifts paid work in something else just to make it financially viable. will let you know what happens

[Jackstini]

Just wanted to say I will be praying for you witp.
I don't think you are crazy at all. I have just been listening to a talk on listening to God so think it's wonderful that you have heard some of what he has planned for you. Sure it will all become clearer soon & glad you had such a great weekend.

[whatistheplan]

Thank you, it helps to know i'm not crazy! I hope it does become clearer, continuing to pray a lot and mull things over. I don't want to rush into any decisions and get it spectacularly wrong but I do want things sorted before I have a baby becuase ideally it will all work well together (my mum could help with childcare during the day) Sometimes I worry that I will end up leaving us short of money so I do this, but we are doing a draft budget and £100 more a month would make it do-able. I suppose it's striking the right balance that is difficult