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Ask HN: Which Manual Work to Pivot To?

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Re: Ask HN: Which Manual Work to Pivot To?

#21
I have been there, several times.

I got real estate license as it seems to combine my love for exploring new areas, meeting people, and freedom to set your own schedule. But I could not go full-time into it as I have kids and didn't want to be away showing homes on weekends or in the evenings.

Other times I tried to do part-time portrait photoshoots as you get to be outside. But again as a father, I didn't think it was worth it. But you can make decent income with just outdoors family portraits.

I feel a little sad about not pursuing these a bit more. But I am taking my kids outside as much as possible, getting them into photo- & video-graphy, and just having fun. This seems to make me not only happy but also more motivated at the work. Perhaps, you can pursue some outdoors hobbies before making any big moves.

Re: Ask HN: Which Manual Work to Pivot To?

#22
My experience kinda dovetails with what other folks have said. I've been a machinist for about 15 years. The early career stuff is low pay, rough conditions. In the middle things get a little better but the hours are long. I'm doing a temp gig to cover for a 60 year old guy who needs some surgery for some work related wear on his joints. Realistically, he's not coming back to work after surgery.

Most of the men in my dad's family were plasterers. Fifty is about the real limit.

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