s/o SAHM for 20 years, where do I begin to find a job?

[Anonymous]

OP, i think you can do this, but have a steep learning curve ahead of you. First, as a few other PPs have noted, most of the potential jobs you listed aren't realistic. They are the unicorn jobs, in that they require high education, have very low pay and the openings are rare. Think librarian (how many librarians does a city hire in a 5 year period? Not many). These jobs are pipe dreams.

I agree with others that the absolute most important thing you need to do is get up on tech skills. Community college, or even just have your kids spend a few minutes going through some of the basics with you. Or even google -- i bet there are a ton of youtube videos or other resources online that would walk you through the basics (like word, powerpoint etc). Because i cannot imagine a job - especially a lot that have been referenced here - where technology isn't paramount. If you want to edit college essays, you had better bet those hyper competive parents who hire you expect you to be technologically savvy - instant and clear email communication, document commenting in Word, etc. Same with task rabbit, freelance editing. These are all jobs in the "new economy" where the whole reason people are hiring you is the convenience. So if you don't know technology, you're really not adding much value. I would spend a few weeks now focusing maybe 4 hours a day on technology learning, and then think about temping or volunteering. Because if you don't have the tech skills when you start in those roles, you'll likely be relegated to some low level opportunities where you don't get to learn any new skills.

Good luck!

[Anonymous]

Hi OP. There is a lot of good advice on this thread and you seem committed to considering all your possibilities, which absolutely increases your odds of success.

I have not been a SAHM, but I have been in a very narrow field in academia for most of my career, and often feel like, in my 40s, I need an alternate plan in case I get laid off. I don't mean to sound negative. I just feel better with a back up plan. Here is mine, in case it might be helpful to you.

The PP who suggested work at a writing center in a college has a great suggestion in pursuing this kind of work. You can also consider setting up your own editing business and marketing yourself to dissertation writers who need editing/proofreading services. Trust me, there are a lot of people out there looking for these services and the good news is that there haven't been huge innovations in editing in the last 20 years.

In terms of getting yourself up to speed technologically, invest in a lynda.com subscription and learn all you can about any program you want to. The instruction is excellent, the website is solid, and you can learn everything you need to at your own pace.

Consider book indexing. This is my super secret exit plan. If you like books and information, are detailed orientated and self motivated, this may be something interesting to you. http://www.asindexing.org/become-an-indexer/so-you-want-to-be-an-indexer/

Best of luck to you, no matter what path you choose.