X2!!!

took the survey for you. I did have a career change and then just as I finished school and landed a job I got a call one day asking if I wanted to work at the local rod shop, now I have two awesome jobs. But I told the owner that if he had called me sooner I would never have gone back to school.

I'd like to go back to my old career and keep my current pay check. Is that asking to much? :_paranoid

Maybe not a career change, but a job change. I thought about going into the Automotive industry, however my fear would be that it could ruin my passion for the hobby/sport---that would not be worth it. When I see the Tucker's at the events and how they get to participate and the success they have had, I must admit that seems like a pretty good gig---however, I realize they are both engineers and hit the market with the right products, right time, and the right quality---they are skilled at their craft---good with the public, etc. It's not an easy business I'm sure--they still have employee issues to deal with, the public, etc--but sometimes when I am at work and I have Administration blowing up my phone and email account because they need the latest trend from the financials, I wish I could trade places and see if it would a better working life. Shoot, often times I see the leaf blower guy go by my window with his Ipod earphones on and wonder the same thing--lol.

What is this 'career' thing you mention? :D

As the old saying goes, "The grass always looks greener on the other side of the fence".

I agree that once you got into the auto industry, your passion would likely disolve. Now, it's our release for the grind. What would you do if cars were your career? You don't drink....:lol: Yoga..

Me personally, I find that I just can't put in the hours I could in the past. (As my phone rings for the first time this week) So I hired a personal part time assistant that puts in 10 hours a week. I also hired another agent to work under me in a mentor type situation. He sucks a little time but brings in some revenue here and there as well. We've found it tough to transition the people that want me on weekends and such to him. We have resorted to blatantly lying. He tells them I'm out of town and he's fielding my phone calls. Every other way has turned people off. They always feel like they are getting passed off and they aren't important to me. Wrong, I just don't have the energy or passion to work 6-7 day weeks anymore. I do still work a 6 day week here and there. There was a long time where it was the norm. Can't and won't do it anymore. I've got beer to drink and asses to kick on the race track, golf course, shooting range, lake, and out in the woods. Have to keep the old lady happy as well.

All - thanks so much for your input. I don't even know where to start in thanking you. It's clear that this topic is something that hits home for a lot of us.

Again, thanks for your responses. I'm definitely going to start putting materials together and am already planning how to get going with that. I know it sounds crazy, but I do think it's possible to chase your dreams. I'm not saying it's easy, but it is most definitely possible. I can't tell you what a relief it is for me to NOT hate going to work in the morning!

The survey should be available for one more week. Again - THANKS!!!!!

-Rob K

I just took the survey. I have been in the industry, as a small town custom guy and then shop owner, for the past couple decades. After I finally got the shop built, to chase the dream of being one of the "big name" builders, I figured out that I didn't want that! :rolleyes: I am currently working (in automotive retail parts), and going to school (communications major), while I re-tool my career goals and figure out where I am going next.

One thing is for sure - I can't imagine my life doing anything but working with custom vehicles, in some capacity. I've been married twice, no kids (by choice), and involved in a few different business fields, but this is the only thing that brings peace to my soul. I never made much money, and never really cared because I'm not very materialistic. I have enjoyed my life immensely. I can understand why it's not for everyone though. If cars are your way to relax and unwind from life, working in this industry might definitely be the wrong road. Cars are my life, everything else is a necessary evil to get where I need to go with cars. It's not the vehicle, not the material part, it's mental, psychological. It's the only thing that "does it" for me. :woot:

I just finished the survey and am very interested in changing careers! I must admit, I am afraid that working in the industry might affect how I feel about it. But, it would be better than the industry I am in right now! Cars are my obsession, and I cannot imagine living my life without being involved with them in some way...

Michael

Survey complete but not changing careers got 5 years left until retiremen so after that i will be in the market