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AIBU?

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not sure what makes me happy anymore...career/life related

2 replies

sundaygirl123 · 24/05/2019 22:03

...anyone else feel like this? Early 40's and questioning everything. Perhaps this should go in relationships, but feel like it's more than that. Apologies if this seems like such a first world problem (I know there are people worse off - but I'd love some thoughts/understanding....)

Ultimately I'm in a position where I took an extended career break when we had kids. In the past couple of years I've ended up following new path, one that is known for being super tough. I've had a little bit of 'success'/affirmation that I'm not totally shit at this, but it's tough, and I'm ultimately wondering if I've made a big mistake even attempting to get into this. I can't say exactly what I'm doing because it's quite outing - but I will say that this is a creative profession. It's an industry full of knock backs and rejection and I sometimes wonder what the hell I'm doing getting into this, now I'm already in my 40s and there are others that graft for YEARS before they get anywhere .

So - I'm throwing myself into a world where rejection and knock backs are standard. I had my work 'rejected' today - absolutely par for the course - but I'm struggling. There are a lot of big 'ifs' in this business, where rolling with the punches and 'keeping going' is what you need to do if you are to get anywhere. Financially, if I make this work, it would be amazing - but part of me just wishes I had the sense to get a more normal office job and focus on the other things in my life that make me happy (kids, friends etc). I feel like I'm totally late to the party in terms of making this career shift - and it's not even just a 'shift', it's 'take a pretty big gamble.' My partner isn't that sympathetic but I feel in bits tonight. :(

OP posts:
Unusualusernames · 25/05/2019 08:04

Hi there

Sorry to say I don't have any advice but I'm selfishly interested in any advice that anyone can offer.

I'm in a similar situation to you. I found had a child just as I was about to qualify as a solicitor and after studying like a maniac for five years. I really lost confidence when I had my baby which meant my career took a totally different course. I've been in a dead end job for years now but I've just accepted a job that could potentially lead me somewhere and I am absolutely petrified. Petrified of being crap at the job, and of leaving a place where I'm liked and I feel secure. Coming out of your comfort zone is a terrifying thing. I guess it's just a very human thing to veer away from potential rejection.

Sorry not to be able to offer anything useful but I know just how you feel.

topcat2014 · 25/05/2019 08:09

Hi OP, I think it is natural to evaluate in your 40s. However, I also stopped caring as much what other people thought. Ask yourself if not now, when?

You can't live your life for other people.

DW used to work in graphic design - which was brutal for rejection. Not something I could have coped with though!

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