A long letter from the Mailbox 📮
📮We received this long letter from @Brittany Erin in the Mailbox. Let’s help our community @Brittany Erin out!
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PLEASE HELP @LEMON8!!
Here’s the Scoop (and hopefully my employer doesn’t see this): So, I just turned 41 this year and recently realized how deeply unhappy I am in my current career position in healthcare.
I’m $60k in debt and I hold 2 college degrees that will NEVER pay me the amount of money needed to support my family, sustain a comfortable lifestyle, and accrue an actual “savings” (plus, “INFLATION”!)…
Money aside, my real passion lyes in the ARTS!
I’m pretty well versed in Graphic Design (though it’s all self-taught) and I’m constantly studying to learn more; but, the amount of time I have in the day is limited (due to working, parenting, responsibilities, etc.) and the risk associated with leaving my job (which provides benefits and stability) is too great to make such an unrealistic and drastic “leap of faith”… What on earth do I do?!
I desire to make something happen; somehow, because my mental health is “on the back-burner” as a result.
I’ve always felt that I was meant for something BIGGER anyways… Like, “I know there’s got to be more to life than just this current, utter monotony that gives me such an insatiable feeling on the inside, deep down at the soul-level”…
I crave purpose, creativity and opportunity - none of which I have in my current position, but I definitely can’t afford to start over and accrue more debt!
Any thoughts on changing the course of my destiny, mid-life?
I do realize that many people go through this same exact thing and I’m genuinely curious to get some introspect from others…
All in all, I think it’s important to follow your passions and to create a life you love (and I do love my life, just not my career), but I also know that a mid-life career change does not come without risk!
Should I suffer in silence and “suck it up”? After all, I did choose my own college major…
I wish I had known to ask if there was “opportunity for growth” or a “clinical ladder” to climb for my chosen profession; but I didn’t.
And healthcare has changed since Covid; it’s different now than it was before, and I don’t ever imagine it will be the same…
I’m a Surgical Technologist btw. In a nutshell, I setup and assist surgeries at a Level 1 trauma center in my hometown. It all holds a very special place in my heart, but my passion for healthcare is surely dwindling…
Thank you to any/all who choose to read and/or provide introspect on my message! Peace & Stay Golden…
xo,
Brittany Erin
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Many people experience career dissatisfaction at various life stages, particularly in mid-life. This sentiment is often amplified by financial responsibilities, like student debt, and the fear of instability that comes with changing professional paths. For example, transitioning from a stable job in healthcare, like being a Surgical Technologist, to pursuing a passion for art can be daunting. The need for creative fulfillment is common, even among those with successful careers in fields like healthcare. Engaging in graphic design or other arts often begins as a hobby, but many feel compelled to explore this passion further, especially when their current roles may feel monotonous or uninspiring. It is essential to weigh the emotional benefits of making a career change against the financial risks. Consulting with a career counselor or seeking mentorship from others who have made similar transitions can provide valuable perspectives. Exploring part-time opportunities or freelance work in the arts might offer a safer way to pivot careers while still managing existing responsibilities. Networking within the creative community and taking small steps toward creative projects could help rekindle passion and purpose. Remember, it's possible to have a fulfilling career while staying true to one's personal aspirations.
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