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Surprisingly Rewarding Careers You Probably Never Considered

Not everyone dreams of being a doctor, teacher, or lawyer, and that’s completely okay. In fact, there are so many other jobs that people don’t talk about much, even though they can be just as rewarding and exciting.

Some of these careers might not sound interesting at first, but once you learn what they involve, you might change your mind. They often come with great benefits like learning hands-on skills, meeting new people, or helping your community in a big way. If you’re open to new ideas, you might find something that’s a better fit than you ever expected.

Surprisingly Rewarding Careers You Probably Never Considered - female vet with cat image

Photo by Parker Coffman on Unsplash

Working with animals outside of vet clinics

If you love animals but don’t want to become a vet, there are still jobs that let you work with them in fun and meaningful ways. Animal shelters, wildlife parks, and pet grooming services all need people who care and know how to handle animals gently.

Some animal control officers help rescue lost or hurt pets, while marine rescue workers deal with sea life that needs help. These jobs can be tough, but knowing you’ve made a difference for an animal that can’t speak for itself can feel really powerful.

Discover hidden opportunities in the print industry

Most people don’t think of printing as a modern or exciting field, but it actually includes a wide mix of creative and hands-on roles. From operating machines to managing packaging projects or working in design, there’s plenty going on behind the scenes to bring ideas to life.

If you’re curious about this space, Print Jobs is a great job board that helps people find real opportunities in the print industry, from entry-level to experienced roles. It’s a great place to explore if you’re looking for something practical, creative, and often overlooked.

Helping others through trades and repair work

Electricians, plumbers, and mechanics often get overlooked when talking about career paths, but they’re some of the most respected and needed jobs out there. People rely on them for everyday problems that need real skill and fast thinking.

If you’re someone who enjoys solving problems and working with your hands, this kind of career could make you feel proud of what you do. Plus, it usually pays well and doesn’t always require a college degree, which makes it a smart option for a lot of people.

Teaching or supporting students in different ways

You don’t have to be a full-time classroom teacher to help people learn. There are support roles like tutoring, mentoring, and working as a classroom assistant that make a big impact on students.

Some people also help students with special needs or work in after-school programs where learning happens in fun and active ways. If you enjoy helping others succeed, this kind of role might bring more meaning to your day than you’d expect.

Working in nature and the outdoors

Spending your workday outside might sound like a dream, but it’s real for people who work in landscaping, gardening, or conservation. These jobs allow you to stay active, enjoy fresh air, and care for the planet at the same time.

For example, park rangers often protect nature, guide visitors, and help keep public spaces clean and safe. If you like being outside more than inside, these kinds of careers might suit you better than anything behind a desk.

Supporting travel and tourism

You don’t have to be a flight attendant or tour guide to work in travel. Hotels, travel planning, and visitor centres all need people who are friendly and organised.

Some jobs even let you combine travel with work, like cruise ship staff or people who plan events in other countries. If you dream of working abroad, a career in tourism might open doors to places you’ve always wanted to see.

Caring for others through health or community roles

Not every health job involves hospitals or long hours. Many people find joy in community roles like being a care worker, home health aide, or wellness coach, which focus on helping others live better lives.

These jobs often give you a chance to connect with people and make a real difference in someone’s day. If you’re a good listener and enjoy helping others feel supported, this kind of work could be very fulfilling.

Sometimes the most rewarding jobs are the ones that don’t get much attention. When you stay open-minded and explore new options, you might find a career path that surprises you in the best way. There’s more than one way to find success and happiness in your work.

Savings Slip-Ups: 7 Mistakes People Make With Their Savings

Having savings is always handy. But there’s a right way and a wrong way to save. This post takes a look at a few common savings mistakes to avoid.

Savings Slip-Ups: 7 Mistakes People Make With Their Savings - hand putting coin into a piggy bank

Photo by Joslyn Pickens:

Not setting clear savings goals

First, it’s important to consider what you’re saving for. Without a clear savings goal, you’re likely to be more tempted to dip into your savings for all kinds of reasons. Setting strict purposes for your savings accounts can help you to ensure that your money is put to good use. This could include setting aside some savings for emergencies, saving up for a holiday or saving up for a deposit on a house.

Putting it all in one account

Having all your savings in one account is not recommended. Consider setting up savings accounts for different purposes – such as one for emergencies and one for personal luxuries such as a hot tub. This could prevent you from draining your savings to buy a hot tub without leaving anything left for emergencies. You may also find that different savings accounts are better suited to different purposes. 

Saving in too many places

It’s also possible to set up too many different savings accounts for too many different purposes. The more spread out your savings are, the less interest you’ll make on each savings pot. You also won’t be able to contribute as much to each savings account, leading to slower growth of savings. A savings account for emergencies, a savings account for a primary personal goal and a savings account for secondary goals is all you need. 

Settling for a low interest account

A lot of people don’t take the time to shop around when choosing a savings account. Some banks could pay much higher interest than others. It’s important to occasionally compare different banks and make sure that you’re earning as much interest as you can

Ignoring withdrawal penalties

Some high interest savings accounts require you to make a compromise – often including withdrawal penalties such as paying you no interest for a month if you take money out or only allowing you to withdraw a certain amount per month. Factor these in when choosing a savings account. 

Not seeking out professional advice

Putting your money into a savings account may not always be the best way to manage your savings. There could be other options to consider like bonds or stocks. By talking to a financial advisor, you can work out the best way to manage your savings based on your investment goals. Try to seek out independent advice rather than talking to someone at a bank. 

Not topping up your savings

It’s important that you’re constantly contributing to your savings – even if it’s just a small amount each month. Too many people who come into money quickly fritter it away without putting anything back into it. Similarly, many people stop saving once they’ve reached a certain goal (such as buying a house) – continuing to save could allow you to chase other goals without having to rely on borrowing (such as home improvements). 

Are Hidden Money Blocks Holding You Back?

Have you ever felt like no matter how much you earn, your financial goals always seem just out of reach? Or perhaps you find yourself making the same financial mistakes repeatedly, despite your best intentions. If so, you might be experiencing the impact of hidden money blocks. These subconscious barriers can significantly affect your financial well-being and hold you back from achieving true financial freedom.

Are Hidden Money Blocks Holding You Back? - woman holding empty purse image

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio:

What Are Money Blocks?

Money blocks are deep-seated beliefs and emotions about money that influence our financial behaviours and decisions. They often stem from childhood experiences, cultural conditioning, or past financial traumas. These beliefs can manifest in various ways, such as:

  • Fear of Loss: The constant worry about losing money can lead to overly conservative financial decisions, preventing you from taking necessary risks.
  • Scarcity Mindset: The belief that there is never enough money can cause anxiety and lead to hoarding or impulsive spending.
  • Self-Worth Issues: Associating your worth with your financial status can result in self-sabotaging behaviours, such as underpricing your services or avoiding wealth-building opportunities.
  • Negative Money Associations: Viewing money as evil or corrupting can create a subconscious aversion to acquiring wealth.

Identifying Your Money Blocks

Recognising money blocks is the first step towards overcoming them. Here are some signs that hidden money blocks might be holding you back:

  • Financial Inconsistency: Frequent fluctuations in your financial situation, such as cycles of saving and splurging, could indicate underlying money blocks.
  • Self-Sabotage: Procrastinating on financial tasks, avoiding budgeting, or missing bill payments are common signs of self-sabotaging money habits.
  • Emotional Spending: Using shopping as a way to cope with stress or emotional turmoil can be a red flag for unresolved money blocks.
  • Persistent Debt: Struggling to get out of debt despite efforts to pay it off may suggest deep-rooted money beliefs that need addressing.

How a Money Coach Can Help

Working with a money coach can be a transformative experience in uncovering and shifting these hidden money blocks. Here’s how a money coach can help you:

  • Personalised Support: A money coach provides tailored guidance based on your unique financial situation and goals. They help you identify the specific money blocks that are holding you back.
  • Mindset Shift: By exploring your beliefs and emotions around money, a money coach helps you develop a healthier relationship with your finances. This shift in mindset is crucial for long-term financial success.
  • Accountability: A money coach keeps you accountable for your financial decisions and actions. They ensure you stay on track and follow through with your financial plans.
  • Educational Empowerment: Money coaches educate you on financial management strategies, equipping you with the knowledge and tools to make informed decisions. This empowerment fosters confidence and independence in managing your finances.
  • Holistic Approach: Money coaches take a holistic view of your financial situation, considering not just your income and expenses, but also your emotional and psychological relationship with money.

Taking the Next Step

If you suspect that hidden money blocks are holding you back, consider seeking the support of a money coach. By addressing these subconscious barriers, you can unlock your full financial potential and achieve the financial freedom you’ve always desired. Remember, it’s not just about the numbers; it’s about transforming your mindset and building a healthy, positive relationship with money.

Investing in a money coach is an investment in yourself. Take the first step towards financial empowerment today and start your journey to uncover and shift those hidden money blocks.

Landlord-Busting Financial Strategies (for a happy new year)

Landlords can take home a lot of your money at the end of the month. Yes, they provide you with housing, but it often seems to come at an exceptionally high cost, especially considering where your income is at the moment. 

That’s where this post can help. It looks at some of the landlord-busting strategies you can use to get back on your financial feet and enjoy living again. 

So, what should you be doing? 

Landlord-Busting Financial Strategies (for a happy new year) Couple moving into a new home image

Maximizing Savings From Rent


The first step is to maximize the savings from your rent. You want to invest in strategies that let you cut down on the costs you already face. 

The simplest solution is often to go to your landlord and negotiate with them for a lower price. Many of the entrepreneurs who own these buildings won’t increase rent if they know you are a long-standing, high-quality tenant who is likely to remain in the property after the initial term. 

You can also do things like splitting the costs with a roommate. Yes, that will involve sharing the space, but it is a tried-and-tested way to reduce outgoings substantially. 

Look For Ways To Fight Back

Another approach is to look for ways to legally fight back against your landlord and get them to foot some of the bill for your accommodation (instead of putting everything on your shoulders). The compensation for housing disrepair amount can be high, so always explore this avenue. Look at the current condition of your rental property and ask whether you could work with a lawyer to benefit from compensation. 

Embrace A Smaller Home

Landlord-Busting Financial Strategies (for a happy new year)
Keys and a small house keychain image

Another approach is to embrace a tiny home. Usually, you can buy these yourself from savings. But even if you can’t, tiny homes can be a great way to cut down on living expenses overall. 

If that doesn’t work, you can try co-living spaces. These are usually fixed buildings with like-minded people who simply want to find living arrangements offering them lower costs. Even if it means sharing with other individuals, they don’t mind. 

Partner With Others

Sometimes, you can also partner with other people through so-called “shared ownership schemes.” These are where you split the equity with people you know (or professionals), lowering your mortgage costs and making it easier to move into a home. Yes, you will still need to maintain the property to the desired standards, but you are also building up equity in your house, helping you avoid some of the pitfalls. 

Use Rent-To-Own Agreements

Sometimes, landlords will allow you to enter into rent-to-own agreements. These schemes see part of your rent go to building equity in the property over time. This option is ideal for landlords who want to exit a position, but don’t want to kick you out. This approach lets you pay them extra for the equity in their property over time, eventually turning it into yours. 

So there you have it: some of the landlord-busting strategies you can use to get your own back. Use these when you can’t see a future beyond renting.

Protecting Your Finances In Times Of Crisis

Just when you think you’ve got everything sorted and organised, you run into a problem – and it’s probably a problem that’s going to cost you money because, most of the time, that’s what problems do. And it could be something small like an emergency repair needed around the house, or it could be something big, like an economic downturn, but whatever it is, it’s going to affect you and your money, and that’s scary when you’re not prepared. So, although you can’t always control what happens, there are some things you can do to be ready, just in case, and with that in mind, here’s how to protect your finances when things get a bit tricky; read on to find out more. 

Protecting Your Finances In Times Of Crisis financial management image


Photo by olia danilevich

Build An Emergency Fund 

An emergency fund is the very first thing you should do if you want to protect your finances in times of crisis, and even if you don’t do anything else on this list (or anything else full stop), building an emergency fund really does have to be a priority. It’s got to cover somewhere between three and six months of living expenses, but although that might sound like a scary number, it’s not as bad as you might think – you can start small and save what you can. After all, even having a few hundred pounds and having that when you need it can make a difference. 

The key is to treat your emergency fund like something untouchable and sacred – it’s only for emergencies, not for little treats because as soon as you start going down that road, you’ll end up spending it on things that you don’t need, and you won’t have it when you do need it. All that hard work would have been for nothing. 

Stay On Top Of Your Income 

One of the most worrying things that can happen when it comes to protecting your finances is if you lose your job – that income you relied on every month is no longer there, and that’s where big problems can very quickly arise. So, if the worst does happen and you do lose your job, don’t panic because that’s going to waste time you don’t have – instead, get creative and think outside the box to bring some money in, no matter how little it might be. 

Could you become a freelancer, for example (even if it’s just temporarily) thanks to the skills you’ve picked up? Or could you start a side hustle? What about selling your stuff online if you no longer need it? And don’t forget about potential compensation either – if an injury means you can’t work, looking into options like personal injury compensation might be wise because you could get some financial relief and that can take a lot of pressure off. 

Know Your Expenses

When a financial crisis hits, knowing where your money actually goes each month can really make a difference – and it’s something you might not have thought about before when you have enough money to cover everything without any issues. The first step is to take some time to look into what you’re spending and think about what’s essential (rent, utilities, food, and so on) and what’s not – then you can prioritise the essentials immediately and save a lot of issues. 

This is the perfect time to trim a little fat from your bank account, so while you’re going through everything, think about whether it not it’s something you need or whether it’s something you want but could do without, at least for a while (don’t forget, the idea is to get you back on your feet, so none of the changes have to be permanent, unless you realise you actually don’t need whatever it is you’re cancelling). You might be able to save a lot of money doing that, a surprising amount in most cases, and it can show you just how much money you’re ‘wasting’ on things that aren’t important. 

Speak To Your Creditors 

If you’re having problems with paying your bills, loans, credit cards, and so on, it can definitely be something that causes a lot of stress and sleepless nights, but there is something you can do to make it better – speak to your creditors. That might sound like the worst thing you could do and something you’d actively want to avoid, but it’s the best way to sort things out and get back on track. 

The fact is that many lenders are willing to offer some kind of temporary relief, like payment holidays or reduced payments, especially if you give them a heads up early on. Remember, things happen in life and even if you never thought it would happen, sometimes it – whatever it might be – does. But being proactive and showing that you’re still responsible despite what’s happened can save you a lot of stress and financial problems, so it’s got to be done.