Why is my job not good enough?

[ABigBarofChocolate]

I work in Early Years. I have done for over 20 years but in different settings.

I took some time out last year for personal reasons and am now looking to get back into work.

I live quite rural and don't drive so it's proving difficult but I'm sure I'll find something. Moving house isn't an option at the moment but it's definitely on the cards for the future.

My family and friends send me links to jobs or ask me if I've found anything yet. They want to help. Fair enough. There are reasons why I haven't applied for certain jobs ( transport issues mainly) so because I say no, they start telling me that I need to "broaden my horizons. Try something new. Go to college" etc. they send me links for jobs completely unrelated to childcare.

It really annoys me. I am trained in my field. I love my chosen career. Why do they feel that just because I'm struggling to find a job straight away that I should give up and move on? They'd rather see me working in McDonald's or in the local shop than doing the career I worked hard and studied for. (There is absolutely nothing wrong with working in McDonald's or the local shop. No offence intended)

I feel like the kind of job I do is important but the people around me see it as a waste of time. Or that's how I perceive it anyway.

Am I being overdramatic?

I just needed to vent.

Are the reasons you took time off related to job stress in anyway? Perhaps they think you need a break and are offering alternatives for your sake?

Are you really struggling financially? If so they may just feel you are at the point of considering taking anything just to pay the bills. If you're not at that point and can afford to wait then tell them that. And then refuse to discuss your work situation with them any more.

I very much doubt they're trying to say fast food or retail is morally superior to childcare. That would be ridiculous. All jobs are valuable otherwise they wouldn't exist. Except maybe NHS managers?!
Just focus on childcare based roles, and gently remind them that's what your looking at as that's what you know and enjoy. If you've fallen out of love with it, then trying something new might end up being a good thing.

@BobbyBiscuits I didn’t read it as other jobs being superior, but more as “if you can’t find a job in your area of work, here’s another one” - which is valid but if OP isn’t struggling financially it’s a bit unnecessary I guess.

@ABigBarofChocolate I feel you, I want to leave my job due to management issues but I actually love my job. I keep an eye out for job offers but as it’s so specific it’s proving difficult. Everyone keeps suggesting me jobs that I don’t want at all unless it was urgently needed.

It's nice to hear I'm not alone. One of the reasons I left was to do with management also. It was nothing to do with the actual job. That's the part I love and miss. It's not urgent either.

Nope. It was various other reasons. The actual job is a joy.

Nope. My OH has a good job. I just want to be doing something for me. Something that I enjoy.

I would just stop talking to them about looking for a job in that case - or even lie. Tell them you've decided to stay off work for a while longer. If they don't understand that this particular type of job has real value for you then keep them at arms length.

Not always the case but the longer without a job the harder it can be to get the next one. Perhaps that is why they are suggesting other jobs. Rather than thinking your job choice does not have value.

I took time out. I didn’t need a job ASAP and underestimated how gap would make it harder. If I had my time again I would still take a break but volunteer.

It sound like their input and links aren’t helpful so I would probably say I have decided to say off longer.