For the past few years I really didn’t have much direction or any idea of what I wanted in life. The truth is, I’ve been absolutely terrified to do things that make me happy instead of doing what I felt was right.
I felt very confused.
For a long time I felt that I was too different to fit in with the rest of society and that something was very wrong with me. I couldn’t stand the idea of working most of my life to benefit someone else. All I wanted was freedom and hardly anyone I knew could relate to how I felt.
Eventually I discovered that there are a lot of people who feel this way. Mostly through blogs and websites, I came across a ton of people who were working on becoming their own boss and leading a life they made for themselves.
There was a problem though.
Most of these individuals were different than me.
They were either:
a) older
b) had no children
c) had a spouse who made enough money to support them
d) single and independent
Well, I’m 23, I have a daughter, and my husband is in the same boat as me.
We have bills, debt, very little education, and a daughter to support.
I’m not saying that because of these differences I will have a harder time in building my own career and life. It’s difficult for anyone, no matter what their situation. All I’m saying is that I have yet to come across someone in the same situation as myself, who blogs about it.
After 5 years of trying to do things the “right” way and having it fail every time and being completely miserable, I finally said to myself and to my husband, “Okay, that’s it. No more! We’re going to do what we want to now.”
And here’s what I’m currently working on to make that happen:
1. College
I’ve been accepted into a journalism program at college. I’m working on getting funding, or at least a student loan. It took me a long time to figure out what sort of program to go for. I considered business, accounting, photography, fine arts, interior decorating, marketing, and a ton more.
2. Health
After gaining 60 lbs. through stress and depression I finally told myself that it was time to get back to being healthy. I’ve been walking a ton more, and eating a lot healthier. Eventually I will get back into Hatha Yoga and meditation. I’m seeing a counsellor and trying to be more optimistic to conquer this depression.
3. Money
Since I’m going to college I won’t be able to work. Hopefully I can make some money online again, or find some other form of income. My husband is working part-time right now but is looking for a different job. We’re also trying to find ways to save money, which is really hard because we already don’t spend any money as it is. Not to mention, I want to pay off my debt.
4. Photography
I’ve always enjoyed photography but never thought I was very good at it. I still don’t, but I’ve been slowly teaching myself photography in my spare time. Maybe I will even take a couple classes.
We have bills, debt, very little education, and a daughter to support.
I’m not saying that because of these differences I will have a harder time in building my own career and life. It’s difficult for anyone, no matter what their situation. All I’m saying is that I have yet to come across someone in the same situation as myself, who blogs about it.
After 5 years of trying to do things the “right” way and having it fail every time and being completely miserable, I finally said to myself and to my husband, “Okay, that’s it. No more! We’re going to do what we want to now.”
And here’s what I’m currently working on to make that happen:
1. College
I’ve been accepted into a journalism program at college. I’m working on getting funding, or at least a student loan. It took me a long time to figure out what sort of program to go for. I considered business, accounting, photography, fine arts, interior decorating, marketing, and a ton more.
2. Health
After gaining 60 lbs. through stress and depression I finally told myself that it was time to get back to being healthy. I’ve been walking a ton more, and eating a lot healthier. Eventually I will get back into Hatha Yoga and meditation. I’m seeing a counsellor and trying to be more optimistic to conquer this depression.
3. Money
Since I’m going to college I won’t be able to work. Hopefully I can make some money online again, or find some other form of income. My husband is working part-time right now but is looking for a different job. We’re also trying to find ways to save money, which is really hard because we already don’t spend any money as it is. Not to mention, I want to pay off my debt.
4. Photography
I’ve always enjoyed photography but never thought I was very good at it. I still don’t, but I’ve been slowly teaching myself photography in my spare time. Maybe I will even take a couple classes.
5. Writing
Well, after doing a bunch of work I hated I finally admitted to myself that I want to be a writer, hence why I’m going for Journalism. Writing a blog daily has been a lot of fun and a great help at getting better. I also read a lot, and I have been trying to increase my vocabulary as well as doing writing exercises.
I’m finding that there are a lot of people in similar situations as myself.
Going to college, supporting yourself financially, chasing dreams. It’s all very complicated and sometimes writing about it and reading other people’s experiences really helps.
If things work out for me, I will share how I made that possible. If things fail, I will let you know what happened so that maybe you can avoid making the same mistakes.
I’ll be sharing healthy recipes I enjoy, money saving tips I discover, photography advice that works for me, tips and tricks I learn about writing and personal life stories on family, school, friends and most importantly, self discovery.
As well as this being a creative outlet to help keep me sane, and possibly get positive feedback and encouragement I also hope I can inspire others to chase their dreams and live the life they’ve always wanted.
Thanks,
Cole
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This is awesome!! I followed your old blog and I love the direction that you are going in. You can do anything you set your mind to, pretty lady. Just because what you are doing doesn't look "right", doesn't mean that it isn't right for you and your story is so inspiration to anyone else that is in a similar situation. I can't wait to see where your journey will take you!
ReplyDeleteThank you! You've always been so supportive :)
DeleteSuch a great honest post. Thanks for sharing. I have just found Glipho which is a sort of social blogging site. I think you might find it interesting: http://glipho.com/
ReplyDeleteGood luck in whatever you choose to do. I takes a lot of courage to make your choices and stick to them. Way to go!
Deganit
Thank you so much! I'll be sure to look into Glipho, I've never heard of it before.
DeleteI'm glad I found this through Crystal's twitter! I feel like we have A LOT in common, even if we have different backgrounds. I'm currently in grad school, switching over to a journalism program... and I've felt very similarly to how you describe in this post. And even in the things you're focusing on and that you enjoy, I relate so much. I'm glad I found this place and I look forward to reading about more! You've gained a new follower! ;)
ReplyDelete--Erika
http://www.chimerikal.com
Thank you! I've just finished reading a few of your blog posts and I have to say, I love your style of writing! And I think you're right, we do seem to have a lot in common. I'm loving your post on being unintentional! Following you, too :) Can't wait to read more.
DeleteKeep on dreaming! That's for sure is one of the ways to achieve your goals!
ReplyDeleteGreat blog! Waiting for your next posts!
Thank you!! :)
Delete