[whattodo2014]

Hi everyone, I just joined today and this is my first post. Over the past year or so I have really been thinking of what I want to do with my life. I am currently a server (who is at home nursing a back injury). Just like the title says, I want a career. I feel like I have left myself behind. I see my friends and "Facebook friends" getting into their careers and seemingly loving life (Yes I know, people can portray themselves any way they wish online). But it is really getting to me. I barely make $22,000 per year... I have always disliked school, I have attempted college multiple times, but can't keep at it. I grew up with a wonderful family (and still to this day). My grandfather has put all my cousins through college, and paid for me to attend as well. But here I am, the only one without a degree or career. I do not have any specific talents that make me stand out. I am of average intelligence, nothing special. I have a girlfriend of four years of whom I love very much.
I constantly look on craigslist for job opportunities, but once I find something that I may have interest in, they either want experience or the pay is ****. When I am at work, I am desperately hoping that some business owner I serve will see the potential in me and want to take me under their wing. I just don't know what to do, I have nowhere to turn really. I get encouraging words from my family, but that doesn't put funds into my currently depleting bank account.
I have considered going to a psychologist (but can't afford it), hypnotherapist (but can't afford it) and even those Taro card readers (which I'm skeptical about) just to possibly get some insight on what I can do in my life to get an upper hand (did I mention, I can't afford to do that either?)
I feel like I could be such a valuable employee. My current job and last job I have been promoted. My last job, I went from being a first time server to assistant store manager in a years time. My current job promotion isn't as great, but I am a store trainer/server/food expediter...
I'm just at a loss.. I don't know what to do...Sorry for the sloppy thought pattern of this post, my mind is just flooded with things I need to get sorted out. I appreciate your time for reading and for your replies. Have a great day.

"What color is your parachute" is a book and a good place to start. I'd suggest doing the exercises and the tests online. You want to assess what skills you are good at and what you enjoy. I wouldn't worry about affording something right now. If you want to be a psychologist you will figure it out. Otherwise there are lots of careers that use the same skills. They can be the end game or a stepping stone.

Some career fields don't necessarily require a degree but you still have to start on crappy pay. That's true with college grads too. Over time you will increase your earning potential if you have some education beyond college. But it doesn't have to be a four year degree. You could enter a technical program. In my state if you get an associates at a community college you can automatically enroll in a state school. It's a good way to take basic classes without the high tuition. And most CC have some sort of technical or other focused degree.

Good luck!

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Most libraries stock the book and often have access to career resources as well.

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