Explore Creative Fields via Entry-Level Roles, Education, or Freelancing from Retail.

At 20 and feeling stuck in retail with an interest in anything creative, a better opportunity involves actively exploring these creative avenues.

How to Pursue:

1. Education & Skill Development:

   • Consider short online courses or community college programs in areas that spark your creative interest, such as graphic design, digital marketing, content writing, illustration, or various crafts. This will help you identify specific skills you enjoy and want to develop.
   • Focus on building a portfolio of your work, even if it starts with personal projects or coursework. This will be a key qualification when seeking opportunities.

2. Practical Experience & Job Opportunities:

   • Look for entry-level jobs, internships, or even volunteer positions within creative industries. This could include roles like Junior Graphic Designer, Social Media Assistant, Content Creator Intern, or assistant to an artisan.
   • Explore starting with small freelance projects on platforms like Fiverr or Upwork. This is a great way to gain practical experience, build your portfolio, and earn some income.

3. Networking:

   • Connect with people already working in creative roles. Informational interviews can provide valuable insights into different career paths and how others got started.
   • Remember that your current retail job has equipped you with valuable transferable skills like customer service, communication, and problem-solving, which are assets in any field.

Expected Benefits:

• Discover a Fulfilling Path: Moving towards a career aligned with your creative interests can significantly increase job satisfaction.
• Develop Marketable Skills: You'll acquire new, in-demand skills relevant to creative industries.
• Career Progression: This exploration can lead to opportunities for growth beyond part-time retail, potentially with better long-term prospects and income.