Ask the Expert Dr. Kathleen Wells is a professional career coach and Director of Coaches That Care. She has coached thousands of clients through the stages of successful career development. Going Back in Time Q: I'm having a career crisis! I taught Sixth Grade English this year and I hated it! My husband is a farmer, custom harvestor and really needs me around in the summer which makes my options limited. I've thought about getting a nursing degree. I don't know. All I really want to do is go back to the 'Leave It to Beaver' days. I want to stay home cook, clean and have a happy home. I don't have children yet, so staying home would be boring. Please help. - Angie A: It sounds to me as though you need to do some soul searching here. You mention wanting to be at home, yet being bored by it. Sit down and do a list of the pros and cons of staying at home whether you are a homemaker or working at a home business. I love working from home because of the freedom. We have a ranch and if my husband or the animals need me, I can shut off the computer for a time and go help. If we want to travel, my office goes with me in a laptop. Is it the freedom you seek from being home? You can do two things. Continue your education if you are so inclined or find a home occupation you can enjoy that will allow you the flexible hours you need. There are many out there, but be careful. There are a few legitimate home businesses and many more fraudulent ones. Also look at the amount of money you need to supplement your husband’s income. Money should not be the end goal (other than keeping a roof over your head). If you enjoy the outdoors and obviously have farmland, what about a pumpkin center for children to come to and have fun in the fall? What about letting local school children come and learn about planting and harvesting first hand? What kind of work could accent the resources and interests you have? What about raising miniature animals and having a farm store on the property? Brainstorm your interests, financial needs and goals. Also consider how the occupation you choose will fit in with any expectations of children you and your husband share. Still stuck for some goal setting? Read Peter McWilliams "Do It! Let's Get Off Our Buts" or Barbara Sher’s "Wishcraft." Both will help you clarify your choices. Good luck!