[Axmann]

I'm stuck. I'm stuck in this terrible, terrible limbo of being a cashier at Walmart, wanting to do something with my life, but being shot down everywhere I turn because something is either years of training with a big, anxiety-inducing test at the end which would kill me if I failed, or where I want to go is too far away.

So, now, I'm stuck. I'm just here living with my parents, with nowhere to go and no one having faith in me...

What am I supposed to do with myself?

[pegasus]

I would suggest writing a list of things you would like to change in the future. Move out, find a new job etc... Remind yourself that things can change and you won't be in the same position in a few years time.

Having a job is good as what ever it is looks good on your resume and there are always possiblilities to move sideways or up. Write a list of the positives about yourself, good time keeping, friendly, helpful etc.. it all helps.

You could also think about moving out, the money from Walmart could pay for rent on your own place and then you could look for a better job, training in a career you really want.

Just ideas...

[PBJandPICKLES]

Finding a purpose is not easy in general... but even harder when we put so much pressure on ourselves... try to relax a little and enjoy life for simple little pleasures and moments with friends and family...

...then start to feel what sorts of activities make you happiest in general & write them down. Then think about what sort of careers those activities are suitable for. Though you should keep in mind that a purpose in life is not solely a career - there is SOOO much more to life than work.

Check out the cool website How to find your purpose in 20 minutes www.stevepavlina.com Look it up - it's fun and may give you insight.

I know how you feel about being lost. And definitely move out. Cut the cord and do the grown-up thing. It will be hard, expensive, and CONFIDENCE building when you see you CAN do it. You CAN do anything.

[1D10T]

I feel for you... I am going through a similar thing myself. I am currently labeled as "Disabled" when I have always been able to do anything. I spent about 5 years doing one of the things I loved most, which was truck driving, and at this time, I don't know if I will ever be able to go back to my job. To top that off, the other skills are ignored because of my being a truck driver and people having the mis-conception that truck drivers don't know much of anything when in reality, it is a very demanding occupation that is very stressful.

Anyhow, hang in there, and you will pull through! If push comes to shove, you can see if there is a NAMI group in your area and they can help give you guidance and help get your thoughts cleared up

[Fuzzybear]

[StrongerMan]

I know what it's like to feel stuck and to be searching for a passion, a calling, a purpose... and maybe love too. It is hard. It is a good thing, believe it or not, because it will motivate you to greater heights. But the clouds of depression can obscure it. There are BETTER days ahead. Even the mighty oak tree starts out as a tiny, fragile sapling. We too have to grow to become strong.

[unaluna]

JFK Jr took the bar exam 3 times before he finally passed it, so for many licensing things, I don't think it's you put in all these years then if you don't pass one test you've lost everything. Well maybe a PhD oral exam, but after so many years you WILL know your stuff, dontcha think? My nail exam, I failed the acrylic portion, you just go back and retake that one part. And besides, WE have faith in you!

[IceCreamKid]

Originally Posted by Axmann

I'm stuck. I'm stuck in this terrible, terrible limbo of being a cashier at Walmart, wanting to do something with my life, but being shot down everywhere I turn because something is either years of training with a big, anxiety-inducing test at the end which would kill me if I failed, or where I want to go is too far away.

So, now, I'm stuck. I'm just here living with my parents, with nowhere to go and no one having faith in me...

What am I supposed to do with myself?

If you can handle being a cashier at Walmart, you can handle just about anything. Instead of looking at a career change as years and years of training, try one class. Just investigate whatever it is that interests you without worrying about years down the road. Something I discovered about 'tests at the end'; after you have prepared yourself (through instruction and your own hard work), it's a way to show off what you know. Good instructors want to help you succeed. Please consider going for what you want. I have faith that you can do what you want to do. Courage!

[Soul Quake]

Volunteer. You won't get a paycheck, but it will break up this rut, get you out of the house, and maybe you will find a "purpose" that way.

[turquoisesea]

can you save up the money you're making at walmart? look up some things you're interested in and take classes, volunteer or search for a job in that field? Do you like sports?

[TerryL]

Maybe you could find a job that helps others? (if that is your inclination i.e.)