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I have experienced a lot of changes in the past few years. I guess that is to be expected considering I gave up a good permanent job, left the city for a lifestyle change in the country and I lost touch with some old friends and made some new ones.

I have tried to make a new life for myself – one that fits me better and allows me to be more authentic as a person. I have tried a few jobs working for others and decided I don’t want to do that anymore. I am exploring self-employment (using my writing skills) and I really enjoy it – when the work comes my way. It is really different from getting a regular fortnightly wage. Every time I have a quiet spell with no work coming in I become convinced that I will never get any more work!

I am studying now (publishing, editing and design) and it is really interesting. It is a bit hard studying online as I don’t get to talk to other students and share ideas. The more I study I start to see how different my life may have been if I did this 30+ years ago. I have decided to learn as much as I can this semester – not just to pass the Unit but to really learn and improve my knowledge and skills.

Years ago I started a University course with the intention to write and produce reading material for adults with literacy problems. I abandoned the idea as I had other commitments at the time, plus I was sure that others would see a gap in the market and address it. However it seems that there is still a shortage of relevant reading materials for adults with limited literacy. I believe that I may now be able to meet that goal. I will start with one book and take it one step at a time.

This decision is very grounding. I have something I want to do and my current study is providing me with the means to do it. There may have some financial benefit down the track but I am more focused on the goal than the finances. I will still put my name about for writing assignments but not get obsessed about it.

Leaving full-time work to explore alternative pathways is exciting, challenging and sometimes confusing. So much of our identities can get tied up with what work we do or who we work for. Not having an employer to hide behind, it is up to me to choose my own path and the consequences that come with it.

cheers

Lorraine