Need help to work out what career I want?

[zothy]

So I'm 30, mum of 2, working in retail.

I'm on a waitlist for autism assessment and I'm dyslexic.

I have no idea what I want to do, I thought I knew but then back out of idea or new job that I could apply for.

Any suggestions where to get help on this?

I want a career not just a job.

What do you like doing? Do you like people? Animals? Problem-solving?

Would you prefer to be office-based or work outdoors? Are you physically fit? Do you speak any other languages? Have qualifications?

I think you need to give us a bit more detail.

What do you go on retail? Do you enjoy it? If so, which bits do you enjoy most? Is customer service your thing, are you good at leading a team or encouraging your colleagues, do you like t hill nags where you keep to a structure and use attention to detail, or are you great at thinking in your feet and coming up with solutions to unexpected challenges?

Think less about a defined sort of role or sector and more about your strengths and transferable skills.

You want the Mature Study and Retraining board, here, for inspiration.

www.mumsnet.com/talk/mature_students

And for general advice and guidance you could try the National Careers Service - who offer telephone consultations as well as online skills discovery quizzes and information on countless jobs and careers.

Thank you @AffIt

Sorry should have given more details

I like animals and people tbh

I have always worked in retail

I'm slightly overweight but fairly fit

I speak GCSE level French

I have 5 GCSE's to a C level

I'm not majorly academic even though I would love to go to university.

I have always liked the idea of vet nurse, nhs related, laboratory related or estate agent.

I'm based in suffolk, and while I'm in a big town, still not as many jobs as a city.

Thanks @ComtesseDeSpair and @MuddlerInLaw

Will have a look for ideas on the mature board and have a look at national careers website too.

Great stuff! It's good to look at what you like, first of all, then what you can do and then sort out how you're going to do it.

If you like animals and perhaps have an interest in science or biology, vet nursing or lab work could be a great move, although you will most likely have to undertake some further study. If you have retail / customer-facing experience, what about some of the big agricultural feed or pharma companies? That can be very well-paid, when you factor in commission.

PPs' recommendation of the mature study board is excellent, there will be lots of people there who can advise.

Best of luck with your new life!

Also, come and chat to us on the Neurodiverse board, we can offer support and hand-holding while you look and think.

Thank you @AffIt