Random Thoughts.....What Are You Thinking?

It's no big deal that I typed it up. It was kind of nice for me to do the math for myself in case I ever decide to give it a try, too. And I just thought if it's something you like, it might help you get an idea of where to start, whether it's now or in the future.

I didn't really consider the space or transportation thing, to be honest. Though, to be fair, hauling dimensional lumber in a car over a short distance is relatively safe. And if you're shopping at a Lowe's (or maybe Home Depot? I've never been in one to be able to say), and you needed plywood but not a full-sheet size, they'll cut it up for you for free or next-to-nothing. That would make it possible to fit even that into a car. (Assuming the back seat folds down to allow the stuff to go through the trunk and into the car.)

Even finished product, if you advertised on something like Craigslist or Facebook, you could just get the people to come to you. That'd save you on transportation.

So, that just leaves space. Which, without building on or building a shed, there's not much I can suggest to help.

Anyway, my post was meant as more of a "if you really want to do it, maybe try it like this" type thing. I didn't expect you to say it was 100% doable or anything. Maybe just something to keep in mind, if anything.

Hopefully you'll find somewhere that you'll get hired for soon enough. Is all the stuff on your record stuff that stays permanently? Or is any of it stuff you can go to the court after so long and have them expunge for x amount of money?

To be honest I'm not really sure anymore. Most of it isn't really that bad, I'm sure it doesn't help, but I don't think it's just my criminal record keeping me from getting a job.. I got home schooled from 8th grade, and then later found out that it wasn't a program recognized by the state of Texas.. So basically I was SOL. (more on this below) As far as the educational board or whatever was concerned, I dropped out in 8th grade. Then there's the very minimal work experience I have. Also because I was an idiot my work history is kinda spotty, I'm not that way anymore, but on paper I seem like I'm just going to up and quit the job in a month or two.

It's just a bunch of little things that when put together, means pretty much anyone who applies for the job as well as me, on paper, is a better candidate for the job.

As for the schooling thing, at 18 I was told I could go back to public high school, and do a 2 for 1 type deal, where I could graduate in 2 years instead of 4.. The 2 years was important, because apparently after 20 I'd have to pay to remain there.. And it was something ridiculous, like thousands per year ridiculous.. I was there for about 2 or 3 months and then was told they had no idea what I was talking about, that I wasn't ever entered in any accelerated program and that unless I was willing to pay in a couple years I might as well drop out now. And I did.

Now that sucks pretty bad. Have you ever considered going ahead and getting your GED? Some people may act like it's not as good as a High School Diploma, but it's the only other option I can really see for you at this point, and it's certainly better than nothing.

You're obviously an intelligent guy, so I can imagine you'd have no problem passing the exam or whatever it is they require for you to get it.

Then it's just a matter of your record and your work history. I don't remember how much it would cost to clear your record of anything that they'll allow to be cleared, but if the cost:benefit ratio is good enough, you could look into it.

As for work history (which I agree, may be more of a factor than your record)... Once you have a reliable way to get to work (or even if you don't at first, for what I'm suggesting), look into somewhere that's hiring for seasonal help. They don't care if you have a spotty work record because they already expect either 1.) to let you go at the end of the season, or 2.) figure you'll quit long before the end of the season anyway. If you stay on long enough to show yourself to be valuable, getting a permanent position wouldn't be hard. Getting hired is just a matter of selling yourself over other people, usually by just expressing a desire to show up when you're scheduled, and being sure they know you're not afraid of working hard/getting dirty/being hot or cold/whatever the conditions may require.

I'm just basing all the hiring stuff on my own job, because nine-ish years ago, that's exactly how I was hired. They didn't expect me to last my 90 days or even put in any effort. I had one previous job.

Even if you don't get kept on from a seasonal job, if you do well enough, they'll be willing to call you back the next time they need help, and you'll have another change to be permanent. And in the meantime, having "seasonal help" as your reason for leaving a job on your resume looks way better than "quit after 3 months."

Again... Just trying to be helpful. Hopefully you'll find something that works for you.

We always end up hiring to fill a few spots for the Thankgiving/Christmas season in the late fall, September-October or so. If you've got a Lowe's (or again, probably Home Depot or the like) in your area, give it a try.