FWIW, I had a similar fantasy about healthcare work as a way to “leave it at 5 pm” and went through the schooling to become a registered dental hygienist.
Turned out I was good at it, serious about doing it well, cared about helping patients, and... could not leave it at 5pm. I was exhausted and emotionally consumed at the end of the day. I saw glaring holes in what we told patients, and in the research. I wanted to address those problems, but didn’t have energy for that. Plus, I resented having no energy to work on my art (or the necessary mental incubation time--which I’ve come to recognize as indispensable.)
Now I’m 5 years into my own passion-for-pay career. I still have zero work/life separation. (Especially at 4am.) I don’t make much money. There’s lots of admin and bs that isn’t me-doing-the-thing-I-love, but it’s all in service of one big picture.
I’m glad to have the perspective that there really is no easier way. There’s no “out.” At least psychologically. (Financially, there are demonstrably more lucrative options than following your passion lol.)
Maybe you’d be a great MRI tech who could write at night! Some people can do it. But I think they’re the exception.
As someone who tried it, maybe my experience can save you the trouble?
For what it’s worth, my dad graduated from social work school at 60, after his business went under (thanks, Home Depot). Then again, if you switched careers, I would really miss reading your wonderful writing.
You’d be an excellent candidate for a Guggenheim; I know it often takes many tries but you merit that support. Just a thought. <3
Whoa. That’s a hell of a compliment. Thanks, E.J. 🙏🏻
It’s true!
FWIW, I had a similar fantasy about healthcare work as a way to “leave it at 5 pm” and went through the schooling to become a registered dental hygienist.
Turned out I was good at it, serious about doing it well, cared about helping patients, and... could not leave it at 5pm. I was exhausted and emotionally consumed at the end of the day. I saw glaring holes in what we told patients, and in the research. I wanted to address those problems, but didn’t have energy for that. Plus, I resented having no energy to work on my art (or the necessary mental incubation time--which I’ve come to recognize as indispensable.)
Now I’m 5 years into my own passion-for-pay career. I still have zero work/life separation. (Especially at 4am.) I don’t make much money. There’s lots of admin and bs that isn’t me-doing-the-thing-I-love, but it’s all in service of one big picture.
I’m glad to have the perspective that there really is no easier way. There’s no “out.” At least psychologically. (Financially, there are demonstrably more lucrative options than following your passion lol.)
Maybe you’d be a great MRI tech who could write at night! Some people can do it. But I think they’re the exception.
As someone who tried it, maybe my experience can save you the trouble?
This is really eye-opening, Allegra. Thank you.
For what it’s worth, my dad graduated from social work school at 60, after his business went under (thanks, Home Depot). Then again, if you switched careers, I would really miss reading your wonderful writing.
Awww Thank you. And that’s inspiring. PS I was more thinking I’d rather not have to edit and teach as much so I could write more.
I know. I can’t imagine how frustrating it must be. Hang in there and glad to see that you are emerging from the depression.
Thank you, Jen. 😘
Truth. Every word. So glad the acupuncture is helping! ❤️
Thank you, Jane. 💝