609 Days and Finally my Own Place Within Reach

After almost 2 years of struggles and rebuilding, I am now the closest to getting back on my feet and into my own place. More importantly, completing the journey to regaining my independence and sense of self-worth.

 

Covid killed my creative career path and forced me to move out of my home. I falsely believed I could just supplement the lost income by tapping into my savings and 401k until the job market improved. As I enter the second half of my life, with no financial reserves left, I had to pull myself up in other ways.  If there is one thing the pandemic has taught us, it is never too late to try something new and adapt. To aspire, to start again. There is hard work to put in and struggles to overcome, but I will persevere.

 

Slow and Steady Progress
I placed all my belongings into storage and moved in with family an hour away while commuting to work a new full-time job. Shortly after, I picked up secondary jobs on my days off to attempt to get ahead.  Two months ago, I relocated again to eliminate the commute and avoid rising gas costs. I find myself on a good friend's futon with all my belongings still in storage but have secured a lease. My new life is finally within reach. However, I am short the funds to cover the deposits for the first month’s rent and the moving costs.

 

Within My Grasp

My goal is to secure the apartment and continue to live sparsely, and build up a buffer to retain the apartment. Eventually, I would like to use the home as my studio as well and return to my creative roots. Needless to say, this turbulent time has taxed my urge to pick up a brush or pen.

 

I'm usually a very private and solitary person, but I had to swallow that pride and ask for help - I have run out of options and do not want to lose the place. I cannot begin to describe the constant mental toll the situation has extracted. Financial stress is but one aspect, the doubts of self-worth from the continued setbacks and defeats are others. I only desire to regain independence and my sense of self once more.

I would greatly appreciate your help with any amount and if not, please share this.

 

Thank you

Kenn