After 20 yrs in the travel industry I obtained my M.Ed. and became a licensed counselor. At 52, I am disenchanted with counseling but am having a hard time finding work elsewhere. I am registered with a local employment agency and am working a couple of part-time jobs but still struggling. Advice?
0 Answers
Jane Angelich wrote on :
It may be time to really “shake it up” and find your passion. I often have my clients take a look at at Vocation Vacations, http://www.vocationvacations.com, a great resource to figure out what you might want to do next and a way to spend a few days shadowing someone who already does it.
Jane
Ellen Falkenberry wrote on :
Thanks Jane!
Liz Alexander wrote on :
Ellen — what was it that inspired you to move from travel to get your Master’s and begin counseling? That’s no mean feat…I’m assuming something really motivated you to make that change. Is it counseling per se you are disenchanted with or the specific focus and type of clients that you’re working with? You have a wealth of diverse experience that could be extremely valuable in organizations or business …but the key thing to discover is what you really want for yourself. That way you can make sure your next move is a good fit. Hopefully there is someone you can trust (or pay) to help you review the pros and cons of counseling as well as any unfulfilled career dreams you have, in order to identify fresh options to explore. Good luck 🙂
Ellen Falkenberry wrote on :
Liz –
I had always wanted to be a psychologist or something similar…just didn’t feel ready til I was in my late 30’s. I graduated with a 4.0, #1 in my class. I feel an enormous letdown because psychotherapy was my dream since childhood. I feel as if my calling has vanished, and I don’t quite know what to do with myself. (If you want me to elaborate on the reasons, please e-mail me at ellenfalkenberry@yahoo.com.) Until I decide on a new dream, I need to pay bills. I still see a handful of private clients (mostly adults with multiple personalities) and I also work part-time tutoring children with learning disabilities. However, the hours and rate of pay are not enough to cover my needs. I also miss the motivation of having a calling, an avocation.
Anyway, thank you for your response. It gave me some things to think about.
lswart wrote on :
At this stage of your life, try to find something that you really enjoy doing. Most people enjoy travel and you have a background in the industry. I’m not sure where you are located but you could try starting a blog on traveling in your area/something you are passionate about while you continue with your existing job so you can slowly transition into an area of interest and expertise.
Ellen Falkenberry wrote on :
Thank you!
GinnyClarke wrote on :
I urge you to review the competencies and skills from all of your work experience and decide for yourself what kind of work you want that might combine those competencies from travel and counseling. Maybe corporate travel or event coordinator? Scan the Internet for job descriptions that appeal to you. Don’t just apply to those, but start actively approaching companies that have those roles (2 or 3) that you know match with what you want – regardless of whether they have openings. Now you are being proactive and telling people what you want rather than waiting for it to come to you. Best of luck!
Ginny
http://mycareermapping.com
Ellen Falkenberry wrote on :
Thanks, Ginny. It’s a frustrating time for me – thanks for the encouragement.