Genesia said:

This paragraph is so true. And unfortunately, you have to grow some years, live through it, to experience the meaning of it. But that's life, joy and pain go hand in hand.
But indeed, my life motto is: Don't waste your energy on things you can't control.
Another one: If it doesn't work the way it should, than make it work the way it could.

1013Nightlife said:

Thanks. I will admit - I have to repeat that to myself constantly.

One other thing I forgot to mention is that - all other things being equal - people will nearly always hire someone they know. Or someone who's been recommended by someone they know. Every professional-level job I've gotten (save the one I've been at for the last 13 years) has been the result of knowing someone. (And I've been offered more than I've taken.) In the beginning, I was hired by acquaintances of my parents. Later, I was hired by associates of friends. I got hired for my last job without even interviewing - because the person doing the hiring had seen me at work in another job and knew me by reputation. The first time I met with the guy, he started off by telling me the salary and asked when I could start.

My point is, if people tend to hire people they know, the best thing you can do is to make sure you're one of the people they know. Network. Join a professional organization. Ask your parents, your parents' friends, your friends, your friends' friends - anyone you can think of - to be on the lookout for you. Try to be recommended before you even submit your resume.

I know that's tougher to do when you're young and haven't built a social or professional network. But the effort pays off.

And it should go without saying that knowing someone is only a foot in the door. You have to prove yourself once you're there. In fact, when a friend has recommended me for a job, I always make sure that their faith is justified.

Genesia said:

I used to hate networking. But it's the key to so many things. You need people who are willing to give you the chance and indeed, when this happens to you, you shouldn't let them down.
Another aspect: when you're twentysomething you have the attitude of "I want it all, i want it all, i want it now". I was like that.
But even that part of my life, silly and too impatient, still, is precious to me.

Not a rut, as I'm not unhappy or overly frustrated, but just treading water at the moment and taking stock. I can see a few changes I need to make but I'm trying not to sweat it and put too much pressure on myself.

I feel like things are slowly getting a bit better. I'm slowly paying off the debt and getting more work shifts, so I'm staying busy Thanks for your support and prayers

fielder said:

You first!