I'm in my 40's. After being laid off in 2012, I have had a really tough time. I was unemployed/underemployed for a while. I finally found a job last year, but the owner turned out to be an abusive bully. Plus, he didn't come through on any of the promises he made when he hired me. I was doing a highly skilled job, but was being paid the salary of an unskilled job. I quit last month because I couldn't handle any more mistreatment and it was clear he was not going to change.

I wish I had answers for you, but I'm muddling through myself trying to figure out the next step. I have an interesting idea I want to turn into a business, but there are issues with permits, business address, etc. I need to sort out. It's complicated because my husband and I are renters, meaning we can't use our house.

Is there any sort of business you could do - maybe some sort of personal service like teaching a skill you have, pet sitting/dog walking assisting an elderly person who needs help with some things? A friend recently quit his job at a vet clinic and is now doing dog walking. He is always busy.

As far as your interviewing skills, do you know anyone that can help you practice? That might make you feel more comfortable.