Ever Dream of working a different job?

[bright sparks]

My mom went to college to be a registered nurse when she was 45 years old, she didn't go until her kids were all grown up. Never say never. There is no reason that you couldn't go to school when you are 40 years old.

I totally understand what you are saying but there is a big difference between 4 years as a student nurse and then entering a field with huge shortages, especially back then I imagine, versus 6-8 years and entering a field dominated by people 20 years younger who already have more experience in the field and then dedicating a lot more time to climbing the ladder to an even remotely half decent wage. A nurse with 4 years studying will enter the workplace earning a very good wage at entry level where as a 4 year degree in psych wont even make me employable so would require a further 2 years of education before I could get a job which would still be a substantial amount less than a new graduating nurse. Going to school at 40 for 4 years to be a nurse is very different than entering school at 40 for 6-8 years into a field such as psych. People who are successful in the field have worked 12 plus years before gaining stability. That would put me well into my 50's, Hence why I think now is a crucial point for me if that is the route I take. I can't have it both ways though. As I said, if this was just the two of us, I wouldn't have any doubts, I can afford to lose a few pounds, or 80 lol by living off rice and beans. The longer I put it off the harder it will be but I think a lot of it is being spoiled having effectively raised my children full time as well as been a full time daycare provider and earning a half decent wage most of the time. It is clear I have lost my independence/identity and my ability to think as an individual outside of the role of caregiver and I just don't want to miss out on my kids last years before high school graduation because I am elbow deep in hardcore studying. I am so torn..... My children are the centre of my universe and I am feeling like I am somewhat lost in my quest for finding my personal identity it seems I may well be clinging to that role and it quite possibly is holding me back from growing a set and having some courage and faith in my own abilities.