Work can be a very ugly word when you hate your job.  The fact is, work is an ugly word for most everyone who is not able to identify a reason for working other than to earn a paycheck.  Many of us only show up because we’ve got bills to pay, and that’s okay for now.  If you’re in this group of people, think about what you would really like to be doing as a career.  Maybe you are processing insurance claims and you really want to be a nurse, but you don’t have the time or money to go to school.  You are not alone!  There are some things you can do to get closer to what you want. 

• Volunteer in the field in which you are interested (in your spare time).

Volunteering is not a popular activity, and while volunteers may not get paid any wages, they are getting some fantastic opportunities to develop some networks/contacts.  Volunteers are also getting some real-world experience in the field of their dreams.  In addition, volunteers are able to list that volunteer work on a resume’…On a personal note, I once called a computer repair company and explained that I was interested in volunteering part time to help out with anything they needed.  The guy on the phone said, “Why don’t you come in tomorrow for an interview.  You may not have much experience, but you are clearly willing to work to learn.”

• Accept a lesser-paying position in a field that excites you (if you can afford the pay cut).

You might not get paid like a dentist, but working the reception desk at a dentist’s office will get you closer to the show than telemarketing for a siding company.  In smaller offices there are often opportunities to “cross train” for other jobs (like hygeinist or dental assistant). 

• Ease into college, trade school, beauty school, or whatever.

Let’s face it – times are tough.  Finding money to go to school is difficult, especially going to school full time.  The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is an option and can open the door to going to school, just be careful.  Take 1 class first, especially if it’s been a while since you’ve been in school.  If you enjoy the class and experience some success, maybe tackle two classes the following semester.  I only caution because I’ve known people (including myself once upon a time) who quit work to go to school full time and found that the field they chose wasn’t as interesting as they thought it would be, or worse still – they found they weren’t such a great student.  Think baby steps.

It might not be possible for you make any changes in your job right now and while that may be an unhappy situation, there are some simple reasons to celebrate.  You have not lost your will to fight – you are reading this and thinking about your future.  You have access to a computer and the Internet, which can be a huge help when you are ready to make some changes.  You have value and are capable of more than what you’re doing – and you know it.