I am stuck in career rut. I am a recent university graduate and I have left a job in operations for a plumbing wholesale company which I enjoyed very much. I worked as junior project manager and I was involved in many company projects and acquisitions.

I am in unique but difficult situation in terms of a career. I have worked extremely hard getting educated and obtaining credentials, but have never found happiness in my career choices mostly because I have been “steered” in this direction by various people.

I am a teacher with a BA in English and a bachelor of education. I am not satisfied with my career and am looking to leave it for something else. I have no idea where to begin because I don’t know how to assess my marketable skills and abilities.

Generally, I think of myself as a good employee – willing to work hard, work with others, and always willing to go the distance – which has always gotten me good performance reviews. However, I find it so difficult landing a new job since I generally feel that I do not make the best first impression.

For the past eight months, I’ve been on a work stress disability leave. I’m healthier now than I’ve ever been and ready to return to work. However, layoffs have eliminated my position and many others. How do I go forward searching for a new position, with the stress leave and the layoff both affecting my work history “story”?

My job is extremely demanding. My BlackBerry is my best friend, the airport lounge my second home. I wish I could get more time with my family, but there is no way I can get out of the fast lane without getting pushed out of the race. At the same time, I feel like I am missing out on my kids’ childhood. Quality time has a hollow ring to it. How can I possibly have it all?