Posted by BarbaraCat on June 12, 2002, at 0:19:19
In reply to Not to break up the party, but. . ., posted by bookgurl99 on June 11, 2002, at 23:27:56
Well, speaking for myself it's a mixed bag. I've been in high tech, high stress computer analyst jobs. I also live in the NorthWest which has the highest unemployment rate in the nation. So very skilled computer folks are currently begging for cab driver jobs. I also know that I can't go back to that kind of 50 hours plus hour rat race hell anymore. It's part of the problem for me. It's been way too much for my tightly strung soul and on top of my Bipolar II mixed-states dx, I've also got fibromyalgia. That kind of stress is major no-no and I've finally learned my lesson.
I hear what you're saying about the positives of having a job - a little community to go to, tasks to take your mind off woe is me, feeling productive. If you have a skill that leaves you sane and free of massive burnout, then there's nothing like the comfort of a home away from home. And hey, let's not forget earning some money, the benefits, etc.
I've boxed myself into a career that I've never liked and now I have to find some other way. I really don't know what else to do and it's been a loooooong time since I did any waitressing. Everything I really love takes a whole lot more schooling, but that's probably what I'll end up doing. Going back to school for who knows how many more years at the age of 51. Don't get me wrong, I'd love to go back to school, but there's the little issue of money. You know, I don't care what they say - winning the lottery would solve ALL my problems!
In the meantime I'm getting unemployment that keeps getting extended and I'm waiting for the Social Security Disability folks to look kindly upon my application and appeal. I'm also gardening, caring for my home after years of neglect, and going within and listening. I'll eventually go back to work but something different, more sane. I just don't know what it is yet but I've got to believe that I'll find it. Not loving or being fulfilled by my work - no, let's say having my soul sucked dry by demanding and totally wrong jobs, has been the greatest heartache of my life. - Barbara
> . . . are you able to do anything to pull yourself out of the current cycle? I have found that being forced to go back to work (because I wouldn't qualify for benefits in my state due to not being a parent) has been really good for me. I'm starting to feel closer to my normal self.
>
> I'm sure it's been suggested before, but. . . just thought I'd toss it out there anyways.
poster:BarbaraCat
thread:24913
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/social/20020531/msgs/25252.html