Fear of taking the next step

Question

I’m considering leaving my job, and my home country to persue a master degree in the states. I would have to live by a extreme saving money plan for the next 12 months and use all my savings. I’m freaking out because I’m afraid of not being able to get a job right after, and come back home broke. I don’t have an option to leave some money here because I will need it all to keep myself while studying as there is  a big currency diference. Any ideas ? Thank you in advance.

Lady Pele · Answer

If you're on an F1 / M1 visa, you won't be able to work in the first 12 months.  That leaves looking for ways to reduce your living expenses.

Besides sharing an apartment, look into renting a room in someone's home.  Take public transportation.  Eat at home and pack your lunch (and buy bulk or generic as much as possible).  Buy used textbooks and clothing.  Take advantage of student discounts (https://dealhack.com/blog/student-discounts-guide)

Good luck!

Helen Hanison · Answer

You're getting good advice already.  I say 'yes and... ' to all the advice about bringing all the fears up to the surface.  Then consider them signposts to things that worry you - NOT reasons to hold you back.  Navigate them. As someone said already, let yourself engage with worse case scenarios - but write next to these, what you do IF.  So, IF you complete the studies but can't get work you'd return...to where you are now...better educated but not worse.  When you get to the end of your list of worries and their solutions - consider why you would be better to stay than to go!  You won't be.  And you'll see this is just a way of acknowledging those fears.  They're there - accept that - but they are not reasons to say. That's the same as choosing to stay stuck.  It might help to consider from this angle - those Sabateur voices grow louder the closer we get to making change happen.  Because we're wired not to take risks short-term.  Even the kind that will improve our situation and we need to thrive long-term!  Good luck!

Anonymous · Answer

Ahh that is hard..write down a plan and account for every worst case scenario -- if it still seems feasible/exciting/what you want, go for it!

Anonymous · Answer

Keep us posted on your decision!

StellaK · Answer

Making a big change is terrifying but that's also the best way you can grow. I've left my job for grad school, felt broke... but it was the best thing I've ever done. I'm now more successful with a higher paycheck than I ever would've had if I didn't take this terrifying leap. While it's a scary idea.. It's also very liberating and exciting.

Fear of taking the next step

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