Q: I'm laid off every winter from my construction job. Then I collect Unemployment Insurance until my boss calls me back in.  My wife tells me I can't make a living from my brawn forever and I'd better start preparing to do something else.  I like my job, but scrimping by on half pay for three months out of the year is causing some friction at home.  Any ideas?

A: If both partners aren't on board, life at home can get pretty difficult.  Particularly when it comes to money.

You didn't saw whether your wife had any ideas about potential alternative careers.  Nor, for that matter, did you.  In fact, from what you wrote, it seems the stress comes from collecting your meager UI benefits for three months.

While the ground is still frozen, it might be a good idea for you and your wife to sit down and consider the following:

Is it just a money thing?  Money can cause major friction in marriages.  Scratch that - it does cause friction.  If your UI benefits are less than you need to make it through the winter months, you might want to look at the money you make during your busy season.  For instance, how much overtime do you get during an average week?  Do you put some aside to help you meet your obligations during the winter or do you and your wife spend it as fast as you earn it?  Look at your money habits.  You might have an easier financial time if you make a few changes.

If not this, then what?  You didn't mention what aspect of construction you're in, but you implied that it's pretty heavy physical work.  Your wife is right about eventually transitioning to working with your brain and not your back.  Discuss your interests and abilities.  Where do you want to be in ten years?  Will you need additional training or a degree?  Can you get promoted to the front office where you are or will you need to work for a different company?

Develop a break out plan.  If you determine school is in the offing (and your family will support you while you attend), look into scholarships and grants.  You may need to borrow some, too.  You might not even need a degree to break out of your current seasonal job.  A certificate might do.  Another great way to change your career is to start a side business or take a side job during the winter months.  Just be sure they're in line with what you might want to do - and you can make enough to live off of.
   
IN THE CARAVAN: To break out of your seasonal employment, look at your money situation, determine what you want to do, then develop and implement a break out plan.

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