I need some life advice

[ttmadness]

Hey guys, I'm a pretty long time (4 years) browser of KB and make the odd post now and then.

Reflecting back, it seems this forum has come a long way from a message board for organising illegal activity and promoting street hooning to a more sensible place, or a place that's at least aware of the behaviors and perceptions people have towards motorcycling. Reading through the off topic section in these couple of years I've come across a variety of life related topics; people asking for help, people contemplating career changes, people dealing with divorce and bike theft, personal loss and catastrophe etc. Well it looks like it's my turn now and I am writing here because I do not know many experienced people well enough or places to go that can provide me with a bit of advice and insight. Perhaps I am just writing this to answer my own questions; anyway without further ado, here's my issue...

I'm 21, have no idea what to do with my life now. I feel if I don't do something I'll be caught in a downwards spiral.

In school I stayed through for 7th form with the intention of going to the NZ Air Force but near the end I met a girl who it turns out I've now been with for 4 years. Due to this I turned down moving out of Auckland with the air force and decided to stay here and see how things turned out... ''hey only 18, plenty of time to fuck about right?'' I went out job hunting and landed a job almost straight away in DSE, worked it for a year then changed to a job in security monitoring and customer service. Paid board to my parents and still had plenty of money to ball around.

I did well in school with foreign languages and so decided to attend uni to persue a career teaching Mandarin, which was always the most interesting subject in school for me. I figured this way I could stay with my girlfriend and further the relationship. As it turned out, I did very well and ended up competing over there for New Zealand in the university world finals, went on TV and all kinds of jazz. Got a scholarship to study over there so I stayed for a further 7 months or so. We both got through being apart and keeping a relationship, though it was a lot easier for me as I was busy teaching English in the Uni, doing various translation work and generally living it up- travelling everywhere, having adventure left right and center. However, in the end I learnt I couldn't see myself being a teacher forever. Now I'm at 21, and thinking ''hey there's really not so much time to fuck about now.''

I came back struggling for motivation to finish my studies, knowing it wasn't going to take me where I really wanted. I would definitely need more qualifications in order to gain any viable options for work in that field. Still, I have no regrets with what I've done as I have many priceless memories and a skill that while not employable on it's own, is used all the time and will stay with me for life.

I love machines (namely bikes of course!), reading about the design of them, the performance engineering and physics behind tyres and suspension. Tweaking, modifying and observing change- things I can't get enough.

My dad is a senior QS overseas but has never been enthusiastic about me going down that route. Even though it's a respectable income I don't think he particularly enjoys it anyway. Would anyone recommend it?

Studying engineering? I'm not sure if engineering can really provide a line of work accomodating these interests in New Zealand. I reckon the motivation would need to be very high to complete such an intense degree and I think there would need to be a specific goal aimed for. I do fear of becoming a uni drone in that factory learning environment I'll also add.

Do an apprenticeship and become a mechanic? While it seems all fun and games now, I hear about people saying it's a different story when 20 years later you've hit a roof and are still repairing some person's old clapped out rust bucket wishing you were designing the things instead.

Become a welder or other tradesman?

What would you do again if you were my age?

I am from the UK and have seen quite a bit of the world. I don't want to bum around... I feel I am privileged to live here in NZ and wish to do contribute and do my part for the country, become a respectable member of society. The place is everything I could ever wish for and don't want to live anywhere else. I'm still actively trying to rid out the last remnants of my accent and become a true kiwi!

If anyone can relate and possibly share some experience and stories that would be great for me. Christ I realise i've just typed up my entire life story. Really sorry about this fucking long drama and I know it could have been a lot shorter. Oh well, no harm to ask right?

[PrincessBandit]

Interesting to see your perspective on how the site has changed over the years. I think it's great that members here share way more than simply motorbike stuff and many do seem to be genuinely sympathetic and helpful to those in need.
I'm sure there will be plenty of advice offered (and probably some piss taking along the way, 'cos there are some here who just can't help themselves); but on the whole you are bound to get something helpful out of responses to your post. (Sorry, I can't offer any...)

[Usarka]

I've always thought that 16-22 is too young to work out what you want to do with your life. A good question is to ask yourself - what will I regret not doing?

[Quasi]

wow - for one so young, you already seem to have such a level head on your shoulders and some great insight. why the hell you are asking us for advise beats me:gob:
but - you are young - the world is yours, you have so many opportunities ahead of you. I sense that you probably have some inkling of where your direction lies and just need some affirmation that you are heading in the right direction, on the right path. Languages - this is an incredible gift to have. Perhaps this is where your future lies.
Regardless - all the best for whatever you choose:yes:

[Fatt Max]

I've always thought that 16-22 is too young to work out what you want to do with your life. A good question is to ask yourself - what will I regret not doing?

That would be my angle mate. I have these regrets and to be honest they haunt me (I'm in my 40's now, fuck that eh).

I say, look at your life, see what you would kick yourself for not doing then go do that. You will make mistakes along the way, you will balls things up, you will thinlk 'Oh fo fuck sake, I am such a twat' but all of that is nothing to be afraid of.

Because at the same time you will do amazing things and rack up some life experinces that only you could have done. Dont get hung up on 'where is my life going' thoughts, instead, work on the 'Im glad my life has been there'.

I am from the UK, have been in this country for 14 years. The decision to emigrate was made easier cos my wife is a kiwi but believe me, the decision was made with a lot of trepadation. But, I went on the basis that if I didnt I would never know.

Good luck mate and keep it steady

[SMOKEU]

I'm the same age as the OP and I have no idea what I'm going to do with life. Take your time and really think about it - don't just jump into a course because the money and job prospects seem good. I did exactly that, twice and have nothing to show for it because the bullshit courses I did had few prospects, looking back on things. You could sign up for an temp agency and get a different job through them every couple of weeks. This will give you a lot of exposure to the job markets and will give you an idea as to what you want to do, and what you don't want to do. You're still young and have the rest of your life to figure out what you want to do.

[ttmadness]

don't just jump into a course because the money and job prospects seem good. I did exactly that, twice and have nothing to show for it because the bullshit courses I did had few prospects, looking back on things.

It's exactly that which makes me hesitate big time submitting myself to the factory tertiary environment. Hard to see the prospects of it sometimes... engineering is surely not in that group though.

[ellipsis]

I've always thought that 16-22 is too young to work out what you want to do with your life. A good question is to ask yourself - what will I regret not doing?

....thats a cool post...worth getting to grips with...the worlds a hard old slippery place..but a real playground...depends what the game you choose is...early to bed early to rise...the only definite, is a pine box...

[Pussy]

Do NZCE.
I reckon it would be a rewarding career

[Edbear]

wow - for one so young, you already seem to have such a level head on your shoulders and some great insight. why the hell you are asking us for advise beats me:gob:
but - you are young - the world is yours, you have so many opportunities ahead of you. I sense that you probably have some inkling of where your direction lies and just need some affirmation that you are heading in the right direction, on the right path. Languages - this is an incredible gift to have. Perhaps this is where your future lies.
Regardless - all the best for whatever you choose:yes:

I agree, especially knowing Chinese Mandarin which is more widely spoken than Cantonese. As a short term job while you explore openings, call centers and customer service businesses like the Telco's, banks, insurance companies, etc are always looking for foreign language speakers. You could also approach Multi-national companies and offer your services.

Check with employment agencies like Madison, and surf Seek for vacancies requiring Mandarin speakers.

[ttmadness]

Do NZCE.
I reckon it would be a rewarding career

I've heard of 150- 200k salary in NZ with civil. I won't get far driven by money though, I know that for a fact.


Originally Posted by Quasi
wow - for one so young, you already seem to have such a level head on your shoulders and some great insight. why the hell you are asking us for advise beats me
but - you are young - the world is yours, you have so many opportunities ahead of you. I sense that you probably have some inkling of where your direction lies and just need some affirmation that you are heading in the right direction, on the right path. Languages - this is an incredible gift to have. Perhaps this is where your future lies.
Regardless - all the best for whatever you chooseI agree, especially knowing Chinese Mandarin which is more widely spoken than Cantonese. As a short term job while you explore openings, call centers and customer service businesses like the Telco's, banks, insurance companies, etc are always looking for foreign language speakers. You could also approach Multi-national companies and offer your services.

Check with employment agencies like Madison, and surf Seek for vacancies requiring Mandarin speakers.

Cheers mate, I don't know if you live in Auckland or not, but the amount of Chinese here is unreal... I wouldn't be offering any advantage to an employere with towering piles of CV's from asians with perfect spoken english.

[Dave Lobster]

Is the RAF not an option any more?

[skinman]

From an ex trademans point of view (cabinetmaker). Most people seem to do an apprenticeship in whatever as a default thing to do till they work out what they really want to be however end up staying in the trade till they get near the top of the ladder and realise there is not much scope for change or advancement in what ever field they are in at which point retraining is the only option.
This is hard as by then you probably have a wife, house etc and are used to earning a reasonable income.
Being in a trade is fine until your older and it gets hard to lift heavy stuff and crawl into small spaces.
A bike mechanic is probably a trade that you could do till retirement but you would have to be sure that it will keep you happy for that long. I guess moving towards bike customising or development could be interesting but it probably would be quite easy to end up just being a grease monkey.
Qualifications are never a bad thing to have as they do give options later.
Is there some kind of mechanical engineering degree as that may serve as a way in to engine design/development?
In the end what you decide has to be your choice but try to think ahead as to where your choice can lead. If in doubt stay at school and finish a course.

[Smifffy]

First up - a couple of cliches:

- "Some of the most interesting people I know still don't know what they want to do with their lives at 40"

- "The world is your oyster"

If you could be doing anything in the world at age 40-45, what would it be? Anything at all, no ifs, buts or downsides. What would you do? Then take the 1st step to getting there.

As you have already found out the best laid plans for careers can easily be derailed. Don't worry about potential derailments, follow your dreams and if you want them bad enough you will achieve them, otherwise you may discover something more interesting along the way (cf girls Vs airforce.)

Some things you could consider:

The police force - sounds like you're a well rounded guy they could do with, with some good life experience already.

Law - The language affinity could be helpful - you might even be able to do this and the above one at the same time.

Keep doing many and varied things and join the territorials or the navy reserve for a bit of a lark and to "give something to NZ" if that's your thing.

There are plenty of opportunities for good professional engineers in NZ.

In answer to your last question, if I was doing it all again, I think I'd study geology.

Good Luck!!

[scissorhands]

Shame you need to be in Aucks, I would have said go to West Oz for the mining and $$$150k year then see the world for a year.

Mechanics can make good money. Someone bright and energetic can make $2k a week just selling shit at the markets. You dont NEED a career to be financial. I could earn 2k week as a sparkie

If you want to design bikes, you will need a workshop, and some autism would help too

[Smifffy]

Do NZCE.
I reckon it would be a rewarding career

For the effort, you may as well do a degree, an NZ cert means jack outside of NZ, DAMHIK. :doh:

[Pussy]

For the effort, you may as well do a degree, an NZ cert means jack outside of NZ, DAMHIK. :doh:

Fair enough!
I was lucky enough to have a clear goal even when I was a toddler!
Worked my way towards it, and ended up in my chosen role for 17 years.
Just gave it up last year and moved on to another.
Perhaps I should have said... Engineering degree

[scumdog]

Do what you want - your'e still danged young, take some chances and risks (but not of the fatal types.

My last career move was at 44 years old so you CAN change when you don't like what you're doing.

[ttmadness]

I agree, especially knowing Chinese Mandarin which is more widely spoken than Cantonese. As a short term job while you explore openings, call centers and customer service businesses like the Telco's, banks, insurance companies, etc are always looking for foreign language speakers. You could also approach Multi-national companies and offer your services.

Check with employment agencies like Madison, and surf Seek for vacancies requiring Mandarin speakers.


Do what you want - your'e still danged young, take some chances and risks (but not of the fatal types.

My last career move was at 44 years old so you CAN change when you don't like what you're doing.

Respect to that. Why on earth do I feel I'm too old to start something else.

[ellipsis]

...just while you're making up your mind, I would suggest getting a bucket racer..:yes:...you can while your whole life away on a race track somewhere...the only thing I've found less pointless in life than motorcycles, is the other stuff in life...:yes:...

[ttmadness]

Is there some kind of mechanical engineering degree as that may serve as a way in to engine design/development?


I'm lead to believe that is all done in Japan etc, but if there are related opportunities in NZ then I seriously need to know!

Can anyone comment on this?

[Madness]

Find something that you think might still make you excited to get up out of bed for when you get older. Either that or do something really unscrupulous that will bring in enough cash to retire before you're 30.
Getting old sucks arse, but even more so when you have to do something you'd really rather not have to do every day just to pay the bills.
Times not running out at 21 either, IMO.

[PrincessBandit]

That would be my angle mate. I have these regrets and to be honest they haunt me (I'm in my 40's now, fuck that eh).


All those pies you passed by and never ate...

[Genestho]

At 22 I didn't know what I wanted, had a good career after bad, made redundant other external life forces happened simultaneously and left the country, came home, left again, came home again to settle. Weeeee.

At 33 I didn't know what I wanted to do either.:facepalm: I still don't - but now I'm much wiser and open to owning opportunity that suits my lifestyle, I assume you don't have to worry about too much yet?

Possibly most people don't pick their paths but rather cruise along on them, others just KNOW what they want to do.

You're a spring chicken, you're obviously a bright spark, going by what you've posted here. The world's your oyster to be a cliche..

Only you can give yourself final directions, take some risks, no regrets, change your path if it's not working for you.
Life is too short to muck around :sunny:

Not much help eh? Good luck :)

[Dave Lobster]

There's a lot to be said for any job that doesn't involve being surrounded by wankers for ten hours a day.

[PrincessBandit]

I've heard of 150- 200k salary in NZ with civil. I won't get far driven by money though, I know that for a fact.


And it's a wise man who understands that while $$$ might be desirable in many ways it's not the be all and end all in life.


There's a lot to be said for any job that doesn't involve being surrounded by wankers for ten hours a day.

Oh I don't know, reckon porn stars don't mind.

[Woodman]

Good onya for even thinking about the future at 21.
BTW you still have a lot of future left, whereas a lot of us here are running low.:facepalm:
Personally I would travel for a couple of years and see what takes your fancy.

[DMNTD]

FFS...mate you're young...get a good idea as to what you want to do and do what you can to make it happen as you wish.
Along the way...stick ya knob in everything...smoke a joint...pull a wheelie, travel the world and live a bit.
Then when you get to my crusty old age you can look back whilst sitting in your wheel chair remembering the good ol' days instead of being overwhelmed by regret.

Get a hairy dog up ya :love:

[ttmadness]

Trust me I know what you mean, thing is I have a woman tying me down. I'm lucky to have done the travelling and mindless adventure that I have already. If it wasn't for her then I wouldn't be worrying about a focussed career, staying in Auckland, saving for a house deposit, the submission to banks for a mortgage and the other pressures that are inevitably thrown upon us blah blah blah. I should probably be thankful that it's now rather than when it's too late though.

[DMNTD]

Thing is I got a woman tying me down. I'm lucky to have done the traveling that I have already. If it wasn't for this then I wouldn't be worrying about a focused career, saving for a house deposit blah blah blah. I should probably be thankful about that.
Fish...sea...many...of.
Life's short, lick all the lollies :sunny:

[Woodman]

Thing is I got a woman tying me down. I'm lucky to have done the travelling and mindless adventure that I have already. If it wasn't for this then I wouldn't be worrying about a focussed career, saving for a house deposit, submitting to banks for a mortgage and the other pressures that are inevitably thrown on us blah blah blah. I should probably be thankful about that though.

Tying you down (your words) or holding you back?

Not saying anything, but its just how I read it between the lines.

crucify me if you disagree

[Fatt Max]

All those pies you passed by and never ate...

How can you be so heartless, reminding me of that.......back to rehab, thanks PB

[AllanB]

I've always thought that 16-22 is too young to work out what you want to do with your life. A good question is to ask yourself - what will I regret not doing?

True words, I'll be 46 this month and still don't have a clue - well not strictly true but what I 'want' to do will not pay for the house and feed the kids!

Have you thought of being a manwhore and selling your body to women who cannot get laid?

But seriously get a trade behind you that you can fall back on later in life if required. Building trade, sparky, plumber etc I wish I did as I'm a bit stuck now where I am and will probably end up selling tools at Bunnings for minimum wage in a decade.

Bugger now I'm depressed too!

[Fatt Max]

Trust me I know what you mean, thing is I have a woman tying me down.

Fuck, I still pay good money for that you lucky bastard

[Ocean1]

thing is I have a woman tying me down.

The better ones are tolerably portable, dude.


I'm lucky to have done the travelling and mindless adventure that I have already. If it wasn't for this then I wouldn't be worrying about a focussed career, staying in Auckland, saving for a house deposit, the submission to banks for a mortgage and the other pressures that are inevitably thrown on us blah blah blah. I should probably be thankful about that it's now rather than too late though.

Meh. Couple of years of wandering? plenty of time yet. Why not study engineering, (mech, broader applications) off shore and make the most of the long tertiary hollidays. Like thousands of Kiwis have done before you.

[ttmadness]

True words, I'll be 46 this month and still don't have a clue - well not strictly true but what I 'want' to do will not pay for the house and feed the kids!

Have you thought of being a manwhore and selling your body to women who cannot get laid?

But seriously get a trade behind you that you can fall back on later in life if required. Building trade, sparky, plumber etc I wish I did as I'm a bit stuck now where I am and will probably end up selling tools at Bunnings for minimum wage in a decade.

Bugger now I'm depressed too!

Never say die mate.

[Maha]

Best advice is...you need a trade job.
Nobody but nobody can do a trade job better than a trades person.
If you feel a change of scenary after a few years, do something mundane like a desk job for a couple of years.
You will always have a trade to go back to.
I left school without any qualifications at all, none, no school C nuffink.
I have been in my trade now for 30 years, never been without a job within that 30 years.

[ttmadness]

Best advice is...you need a trade job.
Nobody but nobody can do a trade job better than a trades person.
I left school without any qualifications at all, none, no school C nuffink.
I have been in my trade now for 30 years, never been without a job within that 30 years.

Which trade and do you enjoy it? Does it satisfy how you want to spend each day for a living?

I am really interested to hear from any senior mechanics about how things are going after a couple of decades at it.

I know there is the 3 year bike mechanic course in Wellington but is there there anything comparable in Auckland?

[Highlander]

Thing is I got a woman tying me down. I'm lucky to have done the travelling and mindless adventure that I have already. If it wasn't for this then I wouldn't be worrying about a focussed career, staying in Auckland, saving for a house deposit, the submission to banks for a mortgage and the other pressures that are inevitably thrown on us blah blah blah. I should probably be thankful about that though.

If you feel she is tying you down you have to wonder if she is right for you. Certainly don't want to have any resentment festering to come out in years to come.

I was married at 19, we had kids quick there after. Basically put our lives on hold to give the kids the best opportunities. That was the decision we made and don't regret it for a second. They are now 17, 19 & 21 and will be leaving home in the next few years. We are now largely letting them make their own decisions and starting to think more about us and less about them.

We still have plenty of time to se the world, I don't feel like I have missed out on life.

Like some of the others have said, I too did a trade apprenticeship. Not working the trade now, same industry, the apprenticship set me with a good basis to develop further. Probably wouldn't be here if I hadn't done the aprenticeship.

[Dave Lobster]

Trust me I know what you mean, thing is I have a woman tying me down..

Take her along while she's fun. When she's not, trade for one that is.

[Ocean1]

They are now 17, 19 & 21 and will be leaving home in the next few years.

Past time to change the locks.

[DMNTD]

Never say die mate.
Exactly!



Which trade and do you enjoy it? Does it satisfy how you want to spend each day for a living?

I am really interested to hear from any senior mechanics about how things are going after a couple of decades at it.

I know there is the 3 year bike mechanic course in Wellington but is there there anything comparable in Auckland?
May I suggest that you consider looking elsewhere for a trade and keep the motorcycle mechanics as a passion/hobby? Not much work around and currently there's a glutton of qualified bike mechanics and next to no jobs for them.
Only trying to make you aware man

[scissorhands]

Which trade and do you enjoy it? Does it satisfy how you want to spend each day for a living?

I am really interested to hear from any senior mechanics about how things are going after a couple of decades at it.

I know there is the 3 year bike mechanic course in Wellington but is there there anything comparable in Auckland?

You cant realistically expect to settle on something now that will have the same passion for you in 30 years. Things change, people change, you will change. Sometimes you just want a change, even if you dont need it.

The only thing you can rely on is change.

Numbers of superbikes and big bore vehicles may drastically diminish in time...

Electric vehicles are sooo easy to service.... yearly maintenance times may be slashed by 80-90%

[joan of arc]

Take the path that leads to you to what ever smokes your tyres currently but be prepared for change and don't expect to be content to be doing the same in 10, 20 or 30 years. There are a lucky few that continue to like what they do after years of the same thing but for most variation is needed to maintain interest. Work consumes a lot of our waking hours so you gotta be doing something that you still like.
If you can change your career using the same basic skill base then finding that alternative at a later date is much easier. So get a decent qualification behind you and find one that has scope to allow variation in direction should you need to in the future.

And on a personal note. The woman that is tying you to Auckland. Be sure that that is a good thing before turning your back on potential elsewhere. And finally, live a little more before the mortgage, kids and settled job. There is never another time in your life that it is so easy to be carefree

[Maha]

Which trade and do you enjoy it? Does it satisfy how you want to spend each day for a living?

Im in flooring.
You may need some school qualifications for most trade jobs now days, not so much when I started in 1980. I just walked up to a carpet layer and said '' can you teach me to lay carpet''? he said to me '' bring a cut lunch tomorrow and be here at 8am''...it was that easy. 30 years on, im still doing it. I now work smarter not harder.
Does it still satisfy me?... some days yes and some not so...but you get that in most jobs I guess.
What does please me the most is the gratitude from some customers when I have finished.
I have put several people through apprentiships over the years and I know of two who are still doing it.

There are a number of trades to choose from, look into whatever floats your boat.
I wanted to be a sign writer an or a spray painter, I looked into both trades before going with flooring.

[ttmadness]

Thanks for all the words so far, I'll take anything I can get from the knowledge here.

[ttmadness]

[QUOTE=Maha;1129973159]Im in flooring.
You may need some school qualifications for most trade jobs now days, not so much when I started in 1980. I just walked up to a carpet layer and said '' can you teach me to lay carpet''? he said to me '' bring a cut lunch tomorrow and be here at 8am''...it was that easy. QUOTE]

Hahaha, that is just amazing.

[Highlander]

Exactly!



May I suggest that you consider looking elsewhere for a trade and keep the motorcycle mechanics as a passion/hobby? Not much work around and currently there's a glutton of qualified bike mechanics and next to no jobs for them.
Only trying to make you aware man


The man speaks some good sense. Plenty of folks have grown to hate what they once loved because they turned it into a job.
Though the ultimate goal for employment would be to find someone to pay you to do what you would have been doing anyway.

[rainman]

In the end, it's not the job you do that's important, it's the life you live.

[ttmadness]

The man speaks some good sense. Plenty of folks have grown to hate what they once loved because they turned it into a job.
Though the ultimate goal for employment would be to find someone to pay you to do what you would have been doing anyway.

It's the big debate isn't it? Live for work or work to live? Work to enjoy things outside of your profession or try to enjoy those things for a living?

[Highlander]

It's the big debate isn't it? Live for work or work to live? Work to enjoy things outside of your profession or try to enjoy those things for a living?

Work to live. it is a means to an end. One day you may not be able to work.

Lifestyle is a combination of money coming in and time off to enjoy it.
There are people at both ends of that scale - all time & no money, or all money and no time. Find the middle ground that works for you.

[DMNTD]

It's the big debate isn't it? Live for work or work to live? Work to enjoy things outside of your profession or try to enjoy those things for a living?

Just so you know, I work in a m'bike shop...and it has nearly killed my passion for riding bikes. I've ridden some of the most amazing bikes ever produced and are around them all day, every (working) day and believe it or not it can became very mundane.
My mechanic at work stopped riding all together and has just sold his (styley) bike.

Hobby as a job? Yes
Passion as a job? Be well aware

[Usarka]

It's the big debate isn't it? Live for work or work to live? Work to enjoy things outside of your profession or try to enjoy those things for a living?

1) No one ever lies on their death bed wishing they'd spent more time at the office.

2) Life's hard. If you live it stupidly it's even harder.

[ttmadness]

Just so you know, I work in a m'bike shop...and it has nearly killed my passion for riding bikes. I've ridden some of the most amazing bikes ever produced and are around them all day, every (working) day and believe it or not it can became very mundane.
My mechanic at work stopped riding all together and has just sold his (styley) bike.

Hobby as a job? Yes
Passion as a job? Be well aware

That makes me cringe. I can't even fathom not getting a kick out of riding a bike.

[SMOKEU]

20 years ago learning a trade may have been a good option, but these days it's very difficult to get into a trade unless you know the right people. I speak from self experience and from several of my mates who have tried to get into a trade by doing pre trade courses. Think very carefully before you jump into a pre trade course - most people who do these courses can't land a job after finishing the course.

[Mom]

In answer to your last question, if I was doing it all again, I think I'd study geology.

Good Luck!!

I would do music. Some wonderfully wanking career advisor told me I could not teach music if I could not play the piano. The fact I had Grade 8 Trumpet/practical and theory did not count.


Someone bright and energetic can make $2k a week just selling shit at the markets. You dont NEED a career to be financial. I could earn 2k week as a sparkie

Exactly! Though to be a sparkie you probably will have some trade qual to back yourself up.


My last career move was at 44 years old so you CAN change when you don't like what you're doing.

44 eh? Hmmm, there is hope for me then. I start my new job Monday :D


Respect to that. Why on earth do I feel I'm too old to start something else.

What the hell does age have to do with it?


Trust me I know what you mean, thing is I have a woman tying me down.

NO woman has the right to tie you to anything, nor does a man have a right to tie me. FFS! Make a call and DO IT. Do not blame anyone else for not doing what you want to. No one has the ability to MAKE you do something unless you agree.

[Highlander]

20 years ago learning a trade may have been a good option, but these days it's very difficult to get into a trade unless you know the right people. I speak from self experience and from several of my mates who have tried to get into a trade by doing pre trade courses. Think very carefully before you jump into a pre trade course - most people who do these courses can't land a job after finishing the course.

My folks always said it doesn't necisarily need to be a trade, but rather something you get a recognised qualification in, and can go back to in future.

[ecko_nzed]

21...pah! plenty of time to decide what you want to do for a career. I'm in IT, but didn't get into it until i was almost in my 30's. I tried lots of little odd jobs before that. The reason I took so long to get into IT, was I didn't use a computer until I was 28 and thought this is fun, but I need to understand how it all works?

I heard a saying once that has stuck with me, "Find a job you love and you'll never work another day in your life". The tricky part is finding out what that love is?

enjoy your journey dude

[SMOKEU]

Doesn't necisarily need to be a trade, but rather something you get a recognised qualification in, and can go back to in future.

Personally I have been put off by courses because after doing 2 of them I have nothing to show for it. I failed my last uni course because of their (the tutors) negligence. Oh, and I passed all the exams and got into the top 20ish% with my exam scores. I'm sick of giving up my weekends and putting my heart and soul into something, just for it to blow up in my face.

[Smifffy]

I would do music. Some wonderfully wanking career advisor told me I could not teach music if I could not play the piano. The fact I had Grade 8 Trumpet/practical and theory did not count.



Yeah career advisors have a lot to answer for I reckon. I don't think the silly old goat had even heard of half the careers that really interested me when I found out about them later in life.

He was also the sod that advised me to do a course that was supposedly recognised as the same as a degree, but is for all intents and purposes worthless outside of NZ.

I haven't played the trumpet since leaving High school.

[Spyke]

My ears are wide open to this thread! thanks op

[Latte]

Do anything..... figure out what you want to do by process of elimination :P

[SMOKEU]

You could buy a mean ounce of chronic and split it into foils. It's an easy way to double your money.

[sinfull]

I be thinkin you have the extra income sorted (cash one too). Ya speak the proverbial orange so why don't ya tutor english to the hordes of manderin speakin folk that populate auckland who want to learn it perhaps,
If it be me i'd be looking to try my hands at as many trades in one year as there are techs doing 6 week courses !
Just a thought mind you, who even knows if there are 6 week starter courses and could you get a student allowence to do a number of em ? Just enough to give you a taste, know there was a few short ones some time back but they may even have had an age limit on em, just to give kids on the dole a push in some direction !

It's like at the end of a year like that, i could probably make a decision on which one i enjoyed so much i'd like to pursue it ! Or even a couple of trades lol I've poured a slab, built a dwelling, roofed it plumbed it, wired it, painted it and glazed it ! Back in the 60's i would have been called a builder, but today if it can"t be shot with a nail gun a builder won't touch it !

[idb]

It's an old saw but I reckon a trade is the way to go.
It's a solid foundation no matter what happens and, if you are so inclined, you can kick on to who knows what?
I am a humble sparkie but I have my own business with up to 30 employees and I travel all around NZ, Australia and the UK.
I learn new stuff every day and I love my job.

If you have a good employer it means that you will have a mentor, genuinely interested in seeing you succeed - not like wasting your money on a bullshit diploma that you chose out of the shiniest catalogue because all they want is your dough and with no regard to what is best for you.

I remember a few years ago seeing a quarter page ad in a national paper advertising a course.
It was twelve months long and guaranteed that it qualified for a student loan.
What was it for you ask?
Well...it was trying to tempt you into wasting a year of your life and accumulating a debt to attain a diploma in Circus Performing for fucks sake.
It still makes me spit when I think about it actually.

[ttmadness]

Bachelor of Circus Arts?

Had to look that one up. Actually it does seem pretty amazing; I for one would love to learn how to do flips, aerial, juggle like a pro and do a one arm handstand. No worries I'll just put it on my student loan. No really, couldn't believe you for a second.

The worst I've heard of is a Bachelor of New Zealand Hip-Hop Culture. :blah:

[idb]

Bachelor of Circus Arts?

Had to look that one up. Actually it does seem pretty amazing; I for one would love to learn how to do flips, aerial, juggle like a pro and do a one arm handstand. No worries I'll just put it on my student loan. No really, couldn't believe you for a second.

The worst I've heard of is a Bachelor of New Zealand Hip-Hop Culture. :blah:

Shit, it has been elevated to a degree now?

[Gibbo89]

This is one interesting thread, hearing peoples tips and experiences, good shit. Almost worth being stickied I reckon.

Question: what's say you decide to become a sparkie, and half way through the course you think 'I'm not doing this full time, 5 days a week for the next few years' and bail on the course (or see it through) and then are back to square one. Yes you could be a sparkie in the mean time and keep an eye out for another career but if you don't have a job to look forward to going to in the mornings then it's gonna be bloody hard to stick at it. And if you bailed in the course half way thru then your in debt (lets say 5k or something) and your back to pondering what to do next while there is rent to pay etc etc.

To the OP, maybe dabble in something you like the look of (i.e. work experience and not get paid whilst doing it) if you can afford it that is.

[Gremlin]

What do you enjoy doing? Comments re making a passion your career notwithstanding. Someone who enjoys their job is going to do a far better job of it, than someone just punching the time card. You'd also be happier in the job if you liked it.

I did a degree, I don't have trades, but I accepted the degree was a piece of paper that said I had done something consistently for 4 years. It may be useful when I move up the career ladder, but who the hell knows. Don't expect to do the exact same thing for your entire career... those days are disappearing. I think it's estimated that the average person would change career approx 4-6 times in their life...

I'm 27, been in the exact same job in IT since I finished Uni, but everyday I learn something more, and the learning only stops when you want it to (or you don't have time at that very point to do learning... instead, sort the issues). I still enjoy it, and the satisfaction of sorting things makes up for the, at times, ridiculous hours.

That said, it isn't a family man's job, but I don't have any intention of settling down yet, no mortgages etc. I live by the saying "work hard, play hard". If I'm not working or catching up on sleep, I'm riding or thinking about riding.

Life is short, there is only one, live it with no regrets. Fuck, when I think about it, I'm roughly a third through, and still got plenty more to do...

[shafty]

Well done on actually thinking about it and seeking advice - obviously mature beyond your years!

Also respect to advice already given, lots of good stuff here.

Í did the old Govt Department thing as a youngster (A job for life in the '80's lol) and flicked in to sales as soon as the gravy train was getting wobbly - I figured with sales skills, I could move in most industries, although there are as always exceptions. A nice company car and getting paid to chat to people has served me well, but I do wish I had done a degree, - tho they weren't as in vogue in my early days....

The reason being that would allow me to teach overseas like my Wife is in Bahrain at the mo...... great (Really good) money, tax free, nice apartment provided and long hols. As it is I have been working for Yamaha here, which has been fun, but
just regular $$, but still tax free.

We are both in our 50;s but some Mates here are 30ísh and with both partners working are really creaming it.

Teaching may not be your cup of tea tho......but remember with todays education craze, the subject could be anything! And I refer to Adult teaching here, ie Polytech etc

A Kiwi Mate chose Teaching as a career simply based on the hols! He;s an outdoor sort of Guy and loves the summer break.

I'd back Smiffy up on fun to be had in Army/Navy reserve.

Get some books out on residential/commercial property - I have made some good money in property investment but should have started earlier....a good buyers market now, and once you've got someone paying off your second house for you, you are on your way.

Have fun Bud - all the best!

Shafty

[PrincessBandit]

I did a degree, I don't have trades, but I accepted the degree was a piece of paper that said I had done something consistently for 4 years. It may be useful when I move up the career ladder, but who the hell knows.




...

Took me nearly 15 years before I could truly say my degree counted for something worthwhile in my career. Not saying it was completely pointless before that because like you said it does show you have some degree of stickability and determination to complete something. Almost 30 years after getting it it was useful for getting into a draduate diploma course I'm now doing. Weird to think about that timespan in my life...holey moley I'm starting to feel old! hahahaha

[Mom]

I haven't played the trumpet since leaving High school.

I still play, though not as much as I used to. I kept up with my music by teaching kids how to play and conducting our local brass band for a few years, my kids give me shit for being part of a museum exhibit :lol:

[Dodgyiti]

Interesting thread alright.
I had no idea what I wanted to do when finishing school.
Folks wanted the house to themselves so I had to do something.
A trade kept me busy for 4 years, paid crap at the start and not quite so crap at the end.
As we move into an information and knowledge workforce the trades will always be in demand. The average person cannot fix things anymore and will pay very well for someone who can, and it is not as if your job will ever be outsourced overseas:yes:
Working with your hands and your head is very rewarding. At the day's end you have something to show for your efforts, your work is judged by your work not like some desk job where they judge your ability to 'fit' into a team or your personality.
I eventually worked and studied my way into a desk job and whadda mistake to make that was:facepalm:

Everyone I know in the trades that had their heads screwed on are doing pretty darn well for them selves 25 years later.

[rachprice]

I am in my 5th year of a medical degree

It is definitely one that isn't just a job

There is immense scope for changes in fields during your career

At the moment I am liking the idea of emergency and orthopedics which may suit you as you use a lot of tools and there is mechanical basis to it
Also it's one of the ultimate 'give back' careers

[ttmadness]

I am in my 5th year of a medical degree

It is definitely one that isn't just a job

There is immense scope for changes in fields during your career

At the moment I am liking the idea of emergency and orthopedics which may suit you as you use a lot of tools and there is mechanical basis to it
Also it's one of the ultimate 'give back' careers

Good on you, would definitely be interesting. How big is the student loan for that?

[rachprice]

Good on you, would definitely be interesting. How big is the student loan for that?

13g for fees for 5 years(first year is about 4) plus living costs if you need it?

I worked part time for most of it

You can get scholarships and stuff

While you get paid relatively well you definitely don't do it for the money, do dentistry if you want money!

My student loan doesn't bother me it's interest free

[ttmadness]

That is really nothing in the long term. I was under the impression it was enormous.

[rachprice]

That is really nothing in the long term. I was under the impression it was enormous.

Na not really huh that's why I don't worry too much about it

A lot of the loan comes from living costs 150 a week to live off

[Banditbandit]

Hey guys, I'm a pretty long time (4 years) browser of KB and make the odd post now and then.

I'm 21, have no idea what to do with my life now. I feel if I don't do something I'll be caught in a downwards spiral.

What would you do again if you were my age?


If anyone can relate and possibly share some experience and stories that would be great for me. Christ I realise i've just typed up my entire life story. Really sorry about this fucking long drama and I know it could have been a lot shorter. Oh well, no harm to ask right?

Fuck .. why are you asking this bunch of fuck ups ???

I have no idea mate .. I've basically fallen into everything ... what I planned has screwed up and what I just fell into has worked out ...

I was 27 before I fell into my first real career ... (before that my "career" was loner 1%er ...) and 38 when I walked away from a current job - and fell into a new path ... and 50 when I made a "career decision" which was a big fuck up ... and now I'm working and doing something else ... at the age of 55 ...

I wouldn't do anything different - it's been rough at times .. but fuck I've had/am having a fucken fun life ...

[Swoop]

I know there is the 3 year bike mechanic course in Wellington but is there there anything comparable in Auckland?
No. Wellington holds all the cards in that arena.


If you are capable with maths, potentially there is massive scope in electrotechnology. Bikes and cars have stupendous amounts of electronics in them nowadays (you'd be surprised how much!) and that provides an interesting pathway for an interested person.

[oldrider]

You are 21 and don't know what you want to do with your life! (you have been pretty busy getting to here)

I am 71 and still don't know what I want to do when I grow up! (could write a book on things I have done though)

Cliché: "Tomorrow is the first day of the rest of your life"

You have already done more than most and done it well by the sound of things.

All you are wanting at the moment is a bit of direction.

If you are looking for a challenge in New Zealand, try management!

If ever there was a single thing lacking in this country, it is good "quality" managers!

Just be picky who you learn from, don't want just more of the same, do we! :facepalm:

[ttmadness]

You are 21 and don't know what you want to do with your life! (you have been pretty busy getting to here)

I am 71 and still don't know what I want to do when I grow up! (could write a book on things I have done though)

Cliché: "Tomorrow is the first day of the rest of your life"

You have already done more than most and done it well by the sound of things.

All you are wanting at the moment is a bit of direction.

If you are looking for a challenge in New Zealand, try management!

If ever there was a single thing lacking in this country, it is good "quality" managers!

Just be picky who you learn from, don't want just more of the same, do we! :facepalm:

Thanks to all who've posted so far. Really helpful.

[Whynot]

Sell everything you have and cycle around the world.

[froggyfrenchman]

Reflecting back, it seems this forum has come a long way from a message board for organising illegal activity and promoting street hooning

Ahhhhh... Those were the days.
A much simpler time

[Ocean1]

13g for fees for 5 years(first year is about 4) plus living costs if you need it?

Cost of producing a MD in NZ is just over $1M, so that's a bloody good deal.

[rachprice]

Cost of producing a MD in NZ is just over $1M, so that's a bloody good deal.

Yeah the government subsidise it hugely!

[Woodman]

Cost of producing a MD in NZ is just over $1M, so that's a bloody good deal.

Fcuk no wonder the gummint get a bit antsy when they bugger off overseas to avoid repaying a loan.

[Ocean1]

Fcuk no wonder the gummint get a bit antsy when they bugger off overseas to avoid repaying a loan.

Oh they contribute, on average almost $200k.

And they often come back fairly soon, it's not as green over there as it first appears, they've got to cover their own (huge) insurance costs, practicing licences are difficult to obtain, there's no sabatical leave, no free lunches, etc. etc.

[motor_mayhem]

Hey guys, I'm a pretty long time (4 years) browser of KB and make the odd post now and then.
.......


probaby a bit biased but I have to put in a plug for IT as it seems to be the road paved with gold for me and quite a few others I know. It's really good because it's usually a strong requirement of lots of quite different businesses and even in economic downturn there still seems to be pretty reasonable demand for it. Also most to the tools and tech is similar if not the same around the world so you have plenty of scope to travel. I moved up jobs despite the recession. Most companies tend to offer good job security, wages and benefits. Which leaves you most finance and time to spend on the good stuff such as motorcycles :rockon:

How you get there, well most of the vendors (e.g. Microsoft, Sun, Cisco) offer courses you can study up for from home, or there are courses at polytechs and universities. Personally I have a university degree, I think they have a higher level of difficulty but I don't know if I consider myself more advantaged than those who don't. University was good for me because it taught me a fair few other life skills, though it sounds like with your current experience you already have those. In your situation if you were interested, go with a vendor course.

[Gremlin]

I'm in contract network management, ie, companies pay another company to look after the network and everything that goes with it. Uni BCom gave me almost nothing and a BTech was focussed on math and physics. Industry experience over the same period of time has taught me far more valuable knowledge.