Group Discussions

Stay at home mom looking to re-enter workforce and change career direction completely.

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  I am currently a stay at home, mother of 3 children. I used to have a crazy 9-5 job in NYC and have since gone freelance. I feel I want to do something completely different, something that is more giving in nature. I have absolutely no time for myself. Although I love being a mom and enjoy my kids, I want to get back into the work force. I want a career change, but don't know what direction to look in. How does one go about this? I feel I have so much to offer!!! I know that it would be healthy and fulfilling to do this for myself and everyone. If mommy's happy, everyone's happy! right?

  Flag as inappropriate Posted by Michele McGrade on 2nd July 2008
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  Hi Michele,
  
  Everyone goes through changes. What are your interests, what inspires you, what do you love to do, what have you always wanted to do, what is your passion? These are some of the questions to ask yourself in trying to decide what to do. Check out the classifieds online and in the paper to see what's available in that type of field. For example, if you want to work with kids, there are church groups, schools, social services, children's agencies, etc.
  
  I hope this helps get you started.
  
  Tencha
  www.my.tupperware.com/2Dream
  www.BlueDiamondTravel.info

  Flag as inappropriate Posted by TupperTencha on 2nd July 2008
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  I remember having those feelings a few months after my daughter was born. Every time I would hear about a job, I would think to myself...I'm qualified for that. I could do that job. Flexibility was the most important thing to me in a job. And through a friend that just ended up happening for me. I don't have much advice beyond the standard keep your ear to the ground, and notice all the possible business contacts that you have in your life. I wanted to let you know that I've been where you are. Good luck!!

  Flag as inappropriate Posted by mamajama on 2nd July 2008
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  Michele - I am kind of at the same place. When my son was born 8+ years ago I worked in a governemnt job in Zoning, Planning & Building Codes, prior to which I worked in the nsurance inspection field. As a primarily man's field I was always watched carfeully and had earned very high respect of being an authority, especially when it came to state law and zoning. I loved the work, hated the politics. As my son started school I went to work with my husband, as his business was growing. I am very thankful to be available for my son's school activities, but miss the professional part of ME and the very good income I used to make.
  
  I have seriously considered applying for a few jobs, but between the costs -emotional and for daycare, gas etc I am not sure I can justify it . . . honeslty I don't WANT to - I am only having one child, it is important to him and me that I am able to attend his morning programs, school plays, etc. I'm very interested in being able to freelance either in my old career of zoining or my dream career - volunteering - I'd love to find a way to earn money helping people raise money hold fundraisers, etc - but haven;t got a clue where to start. I live in a small rural area so my work definitely needs to reach elswhere if i am going to make money.
  Interested in any info!

  Flag as inappropriate Posted by Pammy on 2nd July 2008
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  Michele, I can completely relate. I have three kids myself, was incredibly busy with full-time mothering and child-related volunteering, but felt unfulfilled. I wasn't ready to job search or even to really step into a job, but was starting to feel antsy. And, like you, I didn't want to go back to doing what I did before I had kids. I honestly believe that opportunities come your way when you're ready and open to them. My own experience is that something fell into my lap-- turned out to be a blessing, as I make my own hours, can work from home, it's interesting, I'm learning, etc. And the opportunity fell into my lap because I'd just started to tell friends that I was feeling antsy and was potentially interested in working again; a friend told me about something she was doing, one thing led to another, etc. You probably have a myriad of amazing connections through all the moms and people you know right now. If you start telling people you might be interested in working again, I bet opportunities will come your way.

  Flag as inappropriate Posted by MargotMama on 3rd July 2008
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  Hi Michele -
  
  I highly recommend working with a career coach - I did that when I became an entrepreneur and it took me in a completely different direction than I thought I was heading. And I couldn't be happier! Now I'm a small business coach helping female entrepreneurs launch or expand their own small businesses.
  
  But the coach I worked with was a career coach trained specifically in finding your life's purpose. You can find out more about her at www.maggiemistal.com. She also hosts a series of videos and a weekly radio spot on Sirius radio that you might find helpful.
  
  Good luck! I truly believe that being happy and fulfilled in your career will help you feel happier and more fulfilled as a mom.
  
  Best,
  Danielle

  Flag as inappropriate Posted by Danielle Walsmith on 3rd July 2008