Final week at college

River · November 10

So after having a long chat with my mum yesterday I’ve decided to leave college, mainly because the art I’m doing on the course won’t get me anywhere in my tattoo career and because the college in general to be honest, I hate that college it’s awful I’ve been so unhappy there since I started and I tried to stick it out but I genuinely can’t any longer it’s bringing my mental health down more.

On Wednesday I’m going to sign up at the job centre and then I can leave college. My mum said once I get a job I will need to pay rent which I’ve agreed to and she said it will only be a small amount. Then once I’m working I’m going to do a fine art course online and work my own way into tattooing and at my own pace

It started because I was saying I just want money for Christmas and for my mum to manage it so I can save up for a car and that’s how we got started on leaving college lol. We had a long chat about leaving and she said if it’s gonna make me happy then she’s happy to let me do that

My worries
My mum said I’d be claiming benefits till I can get a job and it’s like with the media there’s a lot of bad press about misusing benefits so I’m scared that it makes me bad especially as my birth mom and one of my brothers claim benefits and they just sit at home all day eating junk food and doing nothing which if there fine with that then fair enough but I don’t want to be like them. I want a job where I’m earning money if that makes sense? I hope this doing come across badly. Sorry

Ech0 · November 10

Hello River
First of all, I would like to say that we are proud of you . It takes a lot of bravery to recognise when something isn’t working for you and to take steps to protect your wellbeing and help you move towards your goals. It sounds like you have a really clear plan and it’s lovely that your mother is supporting your decision .

Also, claiming benefits while you’re between jobs is totally okay. I understand your worries about the stigma surrounding benefits But you’re using them as a temporary support while you get on your feet. It doesn’t reflect negatively on you at all and we can see how motivated, hard-working and determined you are in planning your future and building your life ahead. Everyone’s journey is different and there is nothing wrong with taking things at your own pace

What matters most is that you’re doing what’s right for you. You’ve got this and we are rooting for you River. You’re doing great.

AnonymousToe · November 10

You wouldn’t be claiming benefits for a bad reason. You’re trying to get a job (or you will be) and you’re doing the best you can. You don’t need to feel bad about it.