burbuja0512 Wrote:So.... for the past several years, I have spent every free moment that wasn't dedicated to kids, husband, or work to study. At first that was generally in the form of CLEP/DSST and then it evolved into MBA assignments. I was DYING for the day that I would finish, but now that it's come and gone, I feel a bit lost. I had this insurmountable goal that I didn't actually believe would ever end and now it's over and I don't know what to do next! Yes, I have thought of a few ideas, including starting up French classes, but there is nothing that I can think of that's as tangible as a degree. (I am working on the French btw, but it doesn't satisfy my need for concrete and measurable goals)

I may end up doing another CLEP undergrad if my DH wants me to do one with him, but I don't really need it. I also briefly and halfheartedly considered a PhD program, but I'm not overly interested in it from either a personal or a professional perspective. In my field, I don't see an advantage of having anything beyond a masters degree, so there would not likely be an ROI on any further education I obtain and it would not help me climb the corporate ladder in any way.

My question is, has anyone else here felt like this? If so, what did you do next? Yes, I know the obvious answer is "enjoy life," but I really like having a major goal on the horizon to keep me motivated. I felt this way a few years ago when the goal was to run a marathon. I took an entire year and dedicated myself to training, increasing distance, and increasing my fitness, and enjoyed it quite a bit until the moment I crossed the finish line. HA HA HA - how terrible!!! I love the drive and excitement involved with working towards a goal, but don't allow myself the time to sit back and relax. Just looking for the next step....

Any thoughts or ideas? FYI, my job is in international business and I love my career so wouldn't mind finding something that would enhance my marketability, but also would consider another "difficult" goal as something to replace the study hobby. Darn it! Sometimes I really love being a crazy type-A personality, but it can definitely be a curse and that's how I feel right now.

Thanks!!

cookderosa Wrote:Yes. Yes. Oh, and yes. Finally, yes. You could write a book? :p

burbuja0512 Wrote:hmmm... writing a book sounds familiar somehow.

I have actually thought of a project that might take up my time... but first I have to determine how unique it is. It's a site in Spanish that teaches English in small, bite-sized lessons (think Khan Academy) to Spanish speakers regardless of their literacy levels. So... it could be good for people who live in the US that need lessons but aren't experts at grammar. Or, could be used by students from all over the Spanish-speaking world who need a supplement to their existing classes. The initial lessons would have quite a bit of explanation in Spanish, and the higher levels would be primarily in English.

The whole idea behind is, other than the obvious Sal Khan inspiration, is that when I lived in Mexico, I was paid top dollar by parents of spoiled rich kids who wanted a native speaker. There are plenty of native speakers in the US that teach English, but are unable to communicate with their students. While I fully believe that higher-level courses should be taught in English only, I think that for basic levels, significant explanation in the native language are required to understand basic concepts...

Anyhow.. with all that in mind,I will send the link to my VERY rough draft website to anyone who sends me a PM. Since it's got my name and picture all over it, I don't want to directly put it here, but I would love feedback on the idea.

I think it may be my next big project unless I can find something else "out there" that is just like my idea. So far I haven't..

OpenRoot Wrote:The English idea sounds great!

Just a thought... With all the business experience you have, have you thought about either taking on some specialized volunteer work in the non-profit sector? Agencies that work with transitioning women, at-risk youth and teen girls in particular are often really jazzed if they can get someone like you to come in and talk about their career and how they got to be where they are. I bet theyd love to hear about the non-traditionally attained degrees. For something tangible/measurable , If youre looking for a hefty project maybe design and help implement a series of workshops on interviewing, key business skills, etc. Or maybe offer help with budgeting or funding to a small NGO? Or teaching entrepreneurship skills to Spanish speaking immigrants?