Suggestions for a New Career Path?

Question

I have been working in IT as a computer specialist for the last 5 years. I am well versed in Microsoft windows, Apple Macintosh and fairly knowledgeable in Linux/Unix. I have grown somewhat tired of this career after recently starting a new job at a company which I don't enjoy. I actually went to school for music and had some success touring with bands and doing music for some TV (news documentaries). I love movies and comedy, and consider myself a creative person, happiest when I am being creative with like minded people. What can I do for work? I really want to leave my current job, but I have no savings, and a family (I'm 31) so I can't be taking big risks. I know I could be a comedy writed for something like SNL or pretty much any show, because I have plenty of ideas. Jobs like that aren't freely available as far as I know. I would love to be creative, but like I said, I cant be hitting the pavement looking to sell some movie script or something (not that I've wrote one) I need something stable. Any suggestions?

Answer 1

You're right that only about .001% of the people who write comedy get hired by SNL... and that's only counting people who are already getting paid for their comedy work.

If you really, really want to change careers into something more creative, freelancing is a great way to do it. You can start part-time while you are still employed, to minimize the impact on your family. Check out the sites below for writing or music assignments that you may be qualified for. Once you have some experience, you'll have a portfolio to show prospective employers in that industry.

I'm not affiliated with either of the two sites below, but I do make a living as a freelance writer.