Can I Utilize My Babysitting Network to Explore New Job Opportunities?
I’m really struggling right now and feeling overwhelmed with life. As I approach my 20s, it feels like nothing has gone as planned. I’ve been reflecting on my decisions after high school and feeling uncertain about whether I made the right choices. My previous job at a school didn’t leave me with strong connections, and I’m not sure if I can get recommendations from former coworkers.
Currently, my work as a behavior technician (BT) isn’t going well. It’s only been a month with my new client, and both the parent and teachers seem concerned about my progress. Though I haven’t had direct feedback from the teachers, their overall impression from parent-teacher conferences suggests things aren’t improving. Fortunately, the parent and nanny from my first case have been stepping in to guide me, especially with the client’s extended breaks, but I still feel like I’m struggling. It’s upsetting because this family chose to work with me.
In contrast, my second case is going much smoother and is in-home, but I can’t shake this feeling of melancholy. Being nearly 20 and enrolled in community college, I feel as if I’ve lost my way. I find myself in tears daily and experiencing dark thoughts. I worry that I’ve damaged my relationships and feel ill-equipped to navigate life right now. I genuinely need someone to talk to.
On the positive side, I have $30k saved up and a solid GPA of 3.88 in community college, although that may change by semester’s end. I have 1,404 connections on LinkedIn, many of whom are BCBAs and fellow behavior technicians—though some are in different states. I babysit regularly for a family on Saturdays and another from my former preschool wants me to help their child learn to read over the summer, which could be a great opportunity. Plus, I’m certified as a behavior tech with my BCAT and have been with my current company since October.
If you have any advice or suggestions for leveraging my babysitting connections for new job prospects, I’d really appreciate it!
One response
It sounds like you’re feeling overwhelmed and unsure about your path right now, and that’s completely okay. Many people go through tough times, especially during their early twenties when life can feel unpredictable.
Leveraging your babysitting connections could definitely lead to finding new opportunities. Since you have built relationships with families and have experience working with children, consider reaching out to them to see if they might know of any job opportunities or if they could refer you to someone else. You mentioned that you have connections with BCBA’s and other behavior technicians as well; utilizing your LinkedIn could also help you find job leads, internships, or mentorship opportunities in your field.
Don’t hesitate to communicate your feelings with a trusted friend, family member, or a counselor. It’s important to have support during this difficult time. You have a lot of strengths, like your academic performance and the skills you’ve developed, and you’re definitely not alone in feeling lost right now. Finding a new path may take some time, but you have the potential to find something that resonates with you. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help and explore different avenues until you find what works for you.