Hey all, first Reddit post, but figured I’d try a men’s support group. Bottom line up front: I want to provide financial stability for my family, while also engaged in a meaningful career.

Background: I’m halfway towards my goal! I’m able to provide a comfortable lifestyle for my wife and son (new parents! Best thing we’ve ever done), however I don’t like the corporate lifestyle I find myself in. I want a job that is physically engaging and would still allow for the necessities being taken care of. I’ve looked into Wildland Firefighting, as it’s an active job that also provides a service to the community, but from what I’ve seen it’s a seasonal gig. I’m thinking of maybe wildlife management, and am starting to do additional research into what that entails.

Additional background: I’ve been in the military for the past 8 years. I have a foreign studies degree, but am not looking to work for the government in a capacity that keeps me away from family for extended periods. I’ve got my GI Bill, so I have no issues going back to school to learn a trade/new skills. I don’t think it’s unreasonable to want to be engaged with my livelihood. I don’t want to be a man living a life of quiet desperation, but please tell me if you think that I’m being selfish.