cattlelac's journey

I’m a 31-year-old male feeling extreme dissatisfaction with my career. For a long time, my job in sales has left me unfulfilled, and my feelings about it have worsened significantly over the past year. I’ve been discussing my struggles with my therapist and support group, even reaching out to crisis hotlines about once or twice a week. It’s hard to see my peers thriving in their careers while I feel stuck. I initially chose sales, and I’m good at it, but I’ve hit a wall and want to pivot into something more intellectually stimulating that utilizes my skills in relationship-building. I have a degree in business and economics, with more credits than someone with a Master’s. I don’t want to go back to school, as I already have experience in finance, advanced Excel, programming, Tableau, SQL, GIS, and more. I’ve successfully built partnerships and expanded a brand internationally, but my international experience seems to confuse HR departments. Since June, I’ve been applying for jobs, hired a coach, and reached out to my network and recruiters, but I’ve had no luck. I’m stubborn and refuse to take a job that doesn’t align with my goals, even though the rejections are hard to face. I’ve been reflecting on my career path and how I could be further along if I had made different choices in the past. I’ve had health issues that distracted me, but I’m now diagnosed and ready to move forward. I’m frustrated that I don’t see the types of jobs I want being posted, and while I live near NYC, I’m considering networking events. However, I feel like I’ve missed my deadlines for job applications and am struggling with feelings of misery and embarrassment. Career has always been the most important aspect of my life, and I’m at a point where I feel like I have nothing. I’m worried about my mental health and have reached out for support when I feel overwhelmed. I’m currently waiting on a response from a CEO who is interested in me, but I’m hesitant to pursue a role that doesn’t fit my vision. I want to be in a position where I can respect myself and my work, and I’m focused on roles that involve tech skills, relationship management, and a global perspective. I’m determined to find a career path that resonates with who I am.