No work experience, no proper credentials at 29 yrs old

Franartist18
Community Member

After graduating uni with a less than standard GDP, I've found myself in a spiral of regret. No work experience because I was told to prioritise education, only for me to lose both opportunities to get a job for having less than stellar credentials. I have only my parents to rely on but no one is getting younger and there's only so little I can do and could only do chores. I feel like I have set myself up for failure and I have nothing I can do to set myself up for life.

 

I have nothing. Not even a driver's licence which is embarrassing because again, I prioritised "study" only to self sabotage it. All because of the constant arguments that fed my anxiety and depression between two family members who can't see eye to eye. I hate myself for it. I've regretted it. I wish I fought harder to save myself to survive rather than succumb to my emotions.

I have no friends, only my family but there's only so much I can do. I want to work. But I have nothing to show for it. I'm studying now for my driver's licence but I'm feeling like the clock is ticking. I'm almost 30 yrs old and again, there's nothing I can do to call myself a proper adult. It's embarrassing because of how much of a failure I am.

I wish someone could employ me. Make me get into something at least. I don't even know, I just needed to provide a means to help my family in the financial department. But I am stuck in a loop.

3 Replies 3

TrueSeeker
Community Member

Hello and welcome
I understand how it feels finishing a degree and worrying about getting a job. I was so worried that I was volunteering as much as I could to have something in my resume and gain references. I kept applying to as many relevant jobs as I could. It took me months of rejections to finally get a job. It was underpaid and basic but I was very grateful. Now, when I look back it was a great start and within couple of years I progressed to much better positions and pay.
I hope it helped a little bit, hang in there, keep going, persistence does pay out and once you get your job, the independence will come and hopefully you'll find it a bit easier to handle your family. I know how difficult that can be.
Let us know how you're going.

SleeplessinSA
Community Member

Join a job network which can help you find the position most suited. 

Drivers licence is a great start. 

Taking little steps helps you more towards your goal. 

Join some groups/clubs to meet new people. 

Be kind to yourself and praise yourself in every achievement, even if it's saying hi to a  stranger. 

Know your not alone. 

Morph
Community Member

You are not alone, many 'older' people have never held a driver's license, and my guess is that you are quite good at getting around without one.  But if this is your number one priority is to drive, then just take baby steps towards that goal, you will achieve it and perhaps this will assist you and your self confidence.

 

Volunteering is a great idea as previously mentioned but I believe getting a job first will give you more independence.  You completed undergraduate studies; that's an amazing achievement and something to be proud of and would have taken a considerable amount of commitment, discipline and organizational skills.  These are great words to use on a resume.

 

I suggest being open minded with work, all jobs are important and meaningful, even if it is only a few hours, days, laboring, cleaning, or whatever but it's a start and will open doors to further oportunities.

 

Good luck.