career break - mortgage/financial advice

middle-aged_dreamer

Hi
Since turning 40 a few years ago I have had a strong desire to take time out of the rat race to enjoy life! I would like to do some courses too. I have a house and mortgage but no savings. I want to know if it is going to be possible for me to take a break or if I have to carry on slogging away on the treadmill ad infinitium I also have a desire to earn my living by working with animals but know the pay is poor and haven't had the courage to pursue this even though I am sure I would enjoy it - the courses I want to do are canine massage, hydrotherapy and possible diploma in animal physio - is this all just a dream? Am I trapped on the treadmill? Should I sell up and use some of the equity? Should I take a payment holiday from my mortagage or even try and increase it to fund my dream?

Rick62

I think the first thing to recognise is that if you come off the rat race to try something like this it will be much more difficult to get back than you would imagine. Employers want staff with conventional experience and even if you find a job you would not be satisfied once you have tasted freedom.

I can't comment on your finances, without knowing any details, other than to point out that if you stay in low earning job you will have to downgrade, maybe considerably, at some point. This is not so much a financial choice however as a major lifestyle choice, you will be changing your profession, where you live, ultimately the kinds of friends you have.

Get names of people who have completed the same course, go and speak to them, find out their experiences and prospects.

Good luck.