unemployed for the first time
after 22 years of continuous employment, i was potted at christmas. i was initially gutted, but unemployment has given me a chance to re assess what i want and need out of a job. i have always worked in engineering/manufacturing environments-generally in dirty and dangerous shithole factories, and i realised that this was due to necessity rather than design. i had to take whatever job came along to pay the bills.
now i have a little time and a bit of savings, i am looking to change carrer paths and do something retail or office based (it may be crap, but i want to try it), failing that i will go into full time education. i will never again work in a dirty pit of depravity!
i have also been able to spend a lot more time with my kids, i have been able to spend a good few afternoons in the pub, i have time to go out and take photos at leisure and generally have a good relax.
i have had days where i am very down, when i get knock backs from job interviews i know i did well in, but you have to stay positive.
having to prostrate yourself in front of the dole once a fortnight is horrible though.
(discodaz *generic witty comment*, Fri 3 Apr 2009, 21:06, 1 reply)

Advice is the cheapest thing in the world
1. download Autocad
2. download tutorials + add experience / nous
3. contracting in office / site / home
4. profit!

Worked for me.

I know exactly what you mean about factories

"having to prostrate yourself in front of the dole once a fortnight is horrible though" - sure is. I asked if there was a way out. They put me on a 12 week C&G cad course (in 1996). Felt like I'd got my life back.
(CADmonkey rollllllllled another one, just like the other one, Sat 4 Apr 2009, 14:39, closed)