I basically lost my job recently.

I am a contract worker, so it's a bit more complicated than being called in the boss's office one fine day and being laid off or fired.

I've had this main "client" for my web programming services since 2004. Many of you know who it is (but I'm not interested in having the company's name posted here). They basically hired someone local who can do MOST of my work, and the programming-specific stuff they're just doing without so they can save money.

I was hoping they wouldn't be able to replace me, since the apparent "replacement" is not a programmer. I was wrong.

In fact, it's possible this client will continue to have some small amount of work for me (perhaps $200 a month?) and if I wait long enough, they could theoretically have some large projects that need programming work. But the problem is paying the bills until then.

So now I'm faced with the task of finding another large programming client or main source of income. I've been a contract worker/self-employed/work from home for so long (since 9 months after after I got out of the seminary!) that it's become central to our family's culture and way of life. As such, I'm not entertaining working "outside the home" at this time.

Right now I'm doing a lot of wondering and praying about what I should do. The uncertainty is not fun; I'll tell you that! In fact, it's very poorly timed as I'm actually not that far from the classic "mid life" point. Maybe I should start a rock band, go back to college, grow my hair long, and buy a red convertible? (Just kidding!)

I'm not without skills, experience, or drive. But I do have to decide what I want my next job to be, and then I have to find/make it. I just haven't been this "lost" about my future since I was sent away from the Seminary in '03.

Please keep me and my family in your prayers. We have baby #6 on the way in less than 3 months.

 

 

 

San José, ruega por nosotros. (St. Joseph, pray for us)

 

I don't understand what you do other than programming of some sort, but keep an eye on Craigslist and don't limit your searches to your area. Working remote, as I assume you do, could mean there are a lot more possible opportunities for you than just your area or state.

If you could be more specific about what you do or if it's industry specific i.e. banking, energy, engineering, transportation, retail etc., maybe one of us will happen across something like it and can let you know about it.

 

 


   

An American told me once that because she was in college that she does not have to repay bank loans, until she is finished college.