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I Am Unsure of My Career Path Right Now

Was laid off from a welding position in February, so currently I am between jobs. This has given me time to really think about what I'd like to do, career-wise, and what would be the most rewarding, the most lucrative, and the best for me.

I have a few ideas, although there are naturally pros and cons about each one.

Receptionist/Clerical
Pros: I have done it in the past and enjoyed it very much.
I am naturally suited for paperwork, inter-office communicatins, and data entry
It pays a comfortable wage
Indoor, temp controlled work environment
Not a physically demanding job, which is ideal for my poor health
Usually a very long-term job that can lead to a promotion to Office Manager


Cons: It can be stressful depending on what company you work for
Sedentary jobs can lead to obesity/health problems
There is pressure to look a certain way because you are the "face" of the company
In my particular area, reception/clerical jobs are not readily available because there is not a high turnover rate in those positions


Factory/Industrial
Pros: I can wear whatever is comfortable, usually no dress code
Good pay
Don't have to deal with the public

Cons: Physically demanding, which is bad for my already poor health
In my area you have to work through a temp agency before the factory hires you permanently, and this means they can (and do) work you for 4 months then lay you off
Usually not a temp controlled environment

CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant)
Pros: Comfortable pay wage
Comfortable uniforms/shoes
Emotionally rewarding

Cons: Back-breaking work, which I am not sure I could do with my disabilities
I'd have to attend a grueling fast-paced training course beforehand (some cost $$$, others don't)
I have a weak stomach and am unsure if I could handle health care
Emotionally painful job when patients die
Most facilities are painfully understaffed, which means long, hard shifts
I would likely experience burnout faster than I would at any other position
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SW-User
I can relate to most of your scenarios.

I have changed from factory-types of work that paid well because of the lack of air conditioning during the super-hot weather.

I have an office job now which is really comfortable, but like you said, there's literally no exercise and it's incredibly easy to gain weight, and it can be stressful with customers and yet with no physical movement to burn off that stress, it also becomes unhealthy. It's hard finding a healthy job.
Sh80000 · 36-40, M
Perhaps focus on your health whilst working the least physically demanding job option. Once you’re better you could potentially have more lucrative/better options.
I think the receptionist/clerical job seems the best. You can offset the sedentary aspect of the job with exercise and the other cons don't seem as bad compared to the cons of the other jobs.

 
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