[breakmystride]

I'd already been looking for a new job because I was under so much stress, but I feel like I've tried everything and I've had no luck, so I don't have my hopes up that I'll be able to find a new job anytime soon. Even with a job, I was having troubles making ends meet, so I don't know how I'll get by without an income, and I'm not eligible for unemployment.

I'm also scared that even if I do find another job, it's going to be the same situation. I'll suck at my job, I'll be stressed, and I'll end up getting fired again. I don't even know what kind of job I should try to get, because I don't have skills or much work experience. All I have is a college degree in English.

I'm really lost right now, what can I do?

[SadPam]

breakmystride, I am so sorry! I know only too well the pain and fear of having lost one's job.

Google James Altucher's "10 things you need to do if you were fired yesterday" for a wonderful article that I found refreshing and interesting, especially the comments. I'd also found it consoling in that most of us have been fired at one time or another over the course of a career.

Would you be willing to contact your ex-employer and request that your termination be considered a layoff so you can collect unemployment? It's a long shot but may be worth it. I hope you'll apply online anyway, maybe it'll be approved.

Beyond that, go to a temp agency or two and see whether they have something to offer you. Apply for anything you're qualified for online. Use this time to really consider what you'd like to do. And don't underestimate your degree, you're fortunate to have one as many jobs require it!

Wishing you the best of luck. Please post updates so we can share in your trials and successes.

[Citrine]

You could try to work for yourself until you feel strong enough to put up with the bs of employers again. You have a degree in English? put an ad online, in your local library etc and start teaching (you wiill need to go online and get the basics of structuring lessons) you can do this anywhere at any time 1-1 or with any number. Just an idea. Good luck and please dont be so down on yourself, you just need time to feel better and a job tat is right for you *hug*

[winter4me]

What were you doing?
I would find/take anything right now...
Have you considered getting certification to teach? (or perhaps look into "Teach For America")---you certainly could tutor; and, if you live in an area where there is a refuge/immigrant community you could volunteer to help teaching English (or obtain certification for ESL) In my area there are a number of alternative routes to certification as teachers are needed.
OK enough of the English.
What were you doing? Try not to think ahead too much and get yourself down, keep moving. This is a difficult time...thinking of you.

[breakmystride]

I was teaching at a preschool. And to be honest, I wasn't enjoying that job or felt I was doing a good job at it, but after being unemployed for a long time before getting that job, I really needed to take whatever I could get.

I'm not really sure that teaching is my thing. Although my boss didn't exactly say so, I think the reason I was fired is because I'm too quiet and don't have the take-charge attitude to be a good leader.

[winter4me]

It sounds like you aren't really clear on why you were let go. If you are able, see if the boss would meet with you and give you an explanation and, if they are someone you respect, some advice. Would teaching adults be different?
What about a library job? (wouldn't make ends meet well but might be something more comfortable, if you can find it, while you continue to look) Any chance of returning to school?
How is the job hunt going? What are you applying for? We are here wishing you the best.

[breakmystride]

I'm not having much luck at finding a new job, and my parent's nagging at me about it is really wearing me down.

I've applied to everyplace I can, from secretary positions to part-time seasonal work at the mall. And I actually already applied at the local library, but they're not hiring at the moment.