Our determination and willingness to work hard are the foundation for achieving our goals. Many successful people have faced significant obstacles, including time in jail, and have risen above them to create meaningful and financially secure lives.
Our mindset and commitment to maintaining a high spirit and a healthy body are key to successfully restarting our lives and achieving our goals.
Start each day by reflecting on what we are grateful for. This keeps our focus on progress, not setbacks. Connect with people who inspire and uplift you. Minimize contact with those who drain your energy or bring negativity
Here are some actionable steps and ideas to help anyone looking for a stepping stone to build a trade, career, or business:
Explore Trades and Skills in Demand
Trades offer great opportunities because they focus on skills that are always needed, often don’t require a degree, and can lead to high earnings.
• Electrician: Requires certification or apprenticeship but offers stable income and growth opportunities. Median income: ~$60,000/year.
• Plumbing or HVAC Technician: Training programs typically last 6 months to 2 years. Demand is high, and you can eventually start your own business.
• Carpentry or Construction: Learn woodworking, framing, or general contracting. Work can range from hourly jobs to lucrative independent contracts.
• Truck Driving (CDL): Becoming a commercial driver is an option with relatively short training (about 4-8 weeks). The median income is $50,000/year.
• Welding: A highly skilled trade often in demand for construction, manufacturing, and repairs. Median income: ~$48,000/year.
• Auto Mechanic or Body Repair: Learn vehicle diagnostics, repairs, and customization. Over time, these skills can turn into a business.
Short-Term Certifications
Many trades and skill sets offer short-term certifications that can lead to well-paying jobs:
• Forklift Operator Certification
• Basic IT Certifications (e.g., CompTIA A+ or Google IT Support)
• Commercial Cleaning Services
• Security Guard Certification
Entrepreneurship Opportunities
• Handyman Services: If you’re skilled in minor repairs, painting, or assembly, you can start a business with minimal tools.
• Lawn Care and Landscaping: A good option if you enjoy outdoor work and can scale into offering maintenance contracts.
• Cleaning Services: Residential or commercial cleaning businesses are low-cost to start and scalable.
• Mobile Car Wash/Detailing: Affordable to launch and a high-demand service.
• Delivery Driver or Rideshare: Use these as stepping stones while you build toward long-term goals.
Financial Literacy and Retirement Planning
• Budget First: Track your expenses, focus on needs, and save aggressively. Apps like Mint or YNAB can help.
• Open an IRA: A Roth IRA is a great way to grow tax-free retirement savings with as little as $100 to start.
• Invest in Yourself: Learn about investing, entrepreneurship, and financial planning through free resources like YouTube or local libraries.
Utilize Community Resources
• Nonprofits & Reentry Programs:
Look for local organizations that assist formerly incarcerated individuals with job training and placement. Examples include:
• The Doe Fund
• Goodwill Industries
• Homeboy Industries
• Apprenticeship Programs: Often government-subsidized, they pay you to learn while you work.
• Community Colleges or Trade Schools: Offer affordable options to learn a skill or trade.
Build Your Support Network
• Surround yourself with people who uplift and support your goals. Networking can lead to unexpected opportunities.
Set Small, Achievable Goals
• 1 Year: Learn a trade or get certified. Start saving consistently, no matter how small the amount.
• 5 Years: Build experience, establish a steady income, and work toward buying a home.
When we are on the right path, being willing to put in the work, being consistent, being persistent, and focusing on a skill set will help us achieve financial independence and a comfortable life.
With discipline, consistency, and faith in yourself, you can achieve a better life. Keep your goals in sight, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed. You’ve got this!!
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