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Rising Star
Hey… I’m really sorry you’re going through this. That sounds so damn heavy, and it’s completely okay to feel crushed and regretful right now. You made a decision that made total sense at the time—leaving a job that was burning you out for one in your actual field, with what sounded like decent pay on paper. Anyone would have taken that leap hoping for something better. It’s not a “poor decision” in the way you’re beating yourself up over—it’s just that the reality turned out to be a bait-and-switch, and that’s not on you. Going from a steady ~$3.5k/month (even if it was stressful) to $250 biweekly is a gut punch. The instability of only getting paid for client hours (especially with cancellations) is brutal, and it’s no wonder it’s keeping you up at night. That level of financial stress on top of feeling like your degree and experience aren’t opening doors… it’s exhausting and scary.
You’re not alone in this, even if it feels that way right now. A lot of people in helping/professional fields (therapy, coaching, tutoring, social work, etc.) get lured in by “up to $X/hour” language only to find out the actual take-home is a fraction because of no-shows, admin time unpaid, or slow ramp-up. It’s predatory, honestly.The good news is you’re already doing the right thing—applying elsewhere. It might feel like nothing’s moving, but the market does still value degrees and experience; it’s just noisy and slow right now. Keep casting a wide net: part-time customer service again (even temporarily for stability), hybrid roles, admin/coordinator positions in your field that have real base pay, anything that gets money flowing consistently while you keep looking for the right fit.
In the meantime, if you possibly can, look into any quick-stopgap income—maybe weekend/evening remote customer service shifts, freelance gigs on Upwork, even delivering if your area pays decently—just something to ease the immediate pressure so you’re not crying yourself to sleep.
You’re going to get through this. The regret stings now, but it doesn’t define you, and it doesn’t mean you’re stuck. You deserve stability and work that doesn’t make you feel this small.
Rising Star
You are very welcome! Keep believing in yourself! You are much stronger than you think you are! Your perseverance will pay off.
Have you tried places like RTI.org? They always have remote work. Good luck.
No I had not, Im on it now- thank you
Sorry to hear that. Customer service is such a stressful job! Hoping you can find something in the new year.
Thank you for the wishes☺️
I understand that feeling, especially when you are looking at it from a money perspective. However, the peace of mind you feel in a better job is priceless. Stress takes a toll on your mental health.
Im so conflicted as I have so much peace but zero $$..but hoping my situation changes soon!
Conversation Starter
Getting that much in customer service is amazing! Use that job and try and get another role similar but in your field. In the mean time compromise.
Thats where I am at the moment- compromising but applying daily🥹