new career for me ! what shall I do....

[chipster]

...I'm 45 and really need to rethink my career. I am presently a children's book illustrator,something I love, but it simply doesn't earn me a living - I am making the big decision of changing direction but am very unsure of what I can do... I have a degree (in Graphic Design and my only other work experience has been as a bookseller. Can anyone give me any ideas ?
thanks !!

teacher - or run days where you go into schools and work with classes getting them to write and draw books. Although prob. won't make you rich and wont't be everyday.

I don't know how lucrative it is but I used to know someone who went into business painting children's bedrooms/nurseries, ie murals, children's characters etc. Would that be any good or would you prefer to work for someone else rather than setting up on your own?

How about children's art clubs- afterschool, holidays, that sort of thing? There used to be one near us that was really good; the woman who ran it got art students to help out and they used to do all sorts of lovely things. She did parties too. Probably not wildly lucrative, but you never know

Actually, I think I'd like a bit of a change of direction - doesn't have to be arty ! Would be interested in re-training -

I've always thought if I didn't do this (radio producer) I'd like to pass on important knowledge eg teach sex education, not as a teacher but eg for a charity. or something like drama therapy

teaching graphic design in adult education centres?

What do you dream of doing when you daydream? What are you good at - ie people skills, other talents? What are your passions in life? What did you want to be when you were a little girl? If you had all the money you needed, what would you do for fun? I think pondering those questions will give you lots of ideas as to where your life could take you next.

thanks for ideas - I will have a good think !