I have no job to go back to - I'm panicked about my lack of experience! Anyone identify!!!

[Zoomum]

Hi,
I was just posting to see if there were any others out there like me, so that I wouldn't feel quite so alone in my difficulty.
Before I got pregnant I hadn't yet had any kind of professional career. In my twenties I had a few personal problems that meant that I never got onto the career ladder and progressed. I did however gain a degree, but in the entirely impractical subject of Literature. How I wish I had done something vocational when I had the time! I also did some graduate study abroad.
In order to get some confidence I finally started some work in a children's boutique part time, then found out I was pregnant 2 weeks later! Whilst the people and the boss is wonderful at this shop, this is not what I want to do with my life. I am going back a couple of days a week in Feb, but I have no idea what I'm going to do about finding some better paid, more interesting work. I have no experience, also I kind of want to stay part time with my DS as i don't want to miss this time with him. I have thought about retraining but it's just the time aspect, how to fit it in? I am in my thirties and am panicked now that i may never found fulfilling, reasonably paid work that also fits in with looking after DS. Maybe my expectations are too high? Is anyone else facing these same decisions and issues? Anyone have any suggestions. much appreciated. Sorry about the long post....

not really got any suggestions on how you can change your career but do know that most local authorities will consider part-time/job-share applications even if a job is advertised as full-time.

could you do some studying in the evening to widen your skills base?

good luck

Don't panic - I think it is fairly common not to have a 'career' as it were. I am wanting to retrain in teacher training, but with preschoolers it would be impossible for me to do this until they are at school. Even if I don't do it til I'm 40, there is still 20 years until retirement!

You do have valid work experience - you maybe need to think about what you have been doing and how you can make this experience fit with what you are aiming to do!

If you had no other commitments what would you see yourself doing?

What are you good at? Enjoy doing in your 'spare(!) time'? Do you like working with people/outdoors/creative? What sector would you want to work in? Would you like to be your own boss?

I know some people have used this book and found it useful in identifying areas of work etc.

Good luck!

Hi
Thank you for advice. I think I was having a 'moment' and feeling a bit overwhelmed . I know that there is a way around this and there are always options and choices. Just have to get organised and have some faith that all will work out for the best in the end. I kind of want to stay at home for the most part with DS, as I don't want to miss out being with him!!

Thanks again....