WHY I LEFT SOCIAL WORK FOR PROJECT MANAGEMENT | LIFEWITHLOCC

[@alexandratorres2770]

Thank you so much for sharing about your journey! I feel seen. I am an LCSW. I have been in the social work space for over 10 years in the medical sector (and private practice) and have enjoyed learning and growing but am burnt out more days than not. I have been pivoting and exploring my options knowing that I have many transferable skills. Your video is really inspiring and gives me hope. I’m so happy for you and glad that the word is spreading for us SWs that we do not have to feel pressured to remain in traditional roles. To everyone, don’t give up and keep sharing your stories. They are powerful and meaningful ✨💞

[@LifeWithLocc]

Beautifully said!! You definitely have the power to pivot 🥰 I can’t wait to see where you go!! Best wishes SW sis ✨✨✨

[@tillytal92]

Omg I needed to hear this… I received my MSW a year ago and I’ve worked in residential, clinical and survivor advocacy. I am so burnt out I don’t think I can go back. I’ve felt like I wasted my time getting my MSW but this video has inspired me!

[@LifeWithLocc]

Your time is definitely not wasted!! Use that degree in another field, you have the skills!! 🫶🏾✨

[@marquitaqui1]

Oh my goodness! I am a Social worker as well and now a current Scrum Master. I'm happy to have found your channel. Sooo relatable and right on.

[@LifeWithLocc]

That is soooo dope that you’re a scrum master sis!! I love meeting fellow tech social workers!! 😍✨

[@chekubembata3945]

@marquitaqui1, how do I go about getting scurm master experience? I have gained a foundation certificate

[@Daneesha15]

Current social worker in Philly seeking Project Management roles … I feel like God sent me your page ! Thanks for the insight 🫶🏾

[@LifeWithLocc]

Wow, I absolutely believe that things don’t happen by chance sis. I’m so happy you were led here & pray you find your path! 🥰🫶🏾

[@stephanieburke9551]

Hi Daneesha, I’m also a social worker in Philly and looking for PM roles.. I’m curious, how you found anything yet?

[@MissNajaa]

I am feeling the exact way. Current LMSW therapist and just started in my position but know for sure i won’t be here for long. I’m ready to pivot

[@LifeWithLocc]

You can do it sis!! Start researching what industries you’d like to go into where you’ll still use your SW skillset, it’s def possible!

[@jonellereynoso7162]

Watching this while I am feeling burn out from social work. I just graduated with my MSW a year ago. But, have been in the social work field for 5 plus years. Thank you for this video!

[@LifeWithLocc]

I’m so glad you can relate sis! & hopefully this shed light on what we can do outside of the “traditional” social work space! 🫶🏾✨

[@kaileykelley9626]

This resonated so much with me! I would love to see a video about how you apply for the job you currently had and really just give a step-by-step walk-through. I also have my BS in psychology and my MSW and literally every single thing you were saying felt like someone was reading my mind lol

[@LifeWithLocc]

I have a video called “how to pivot into project management” that talks about how I got into my current role!! Feel free to check that one out, & I’ll also have a lot more professional dev content on the way!! 😁💕

[@wilsonailen5015]

Social Work is a spiritual calling.

[@LifeWithLocc]

100% agree! 💕

[@brookesanders7466]

I dnt know how im going to do it, but i am!

[@shanicesteenkamp6670]

Hi. I am an entry level social worker in South Africa. I graduated with my honors degree in 2021. My first job was in child protection, this came along with high levels of stress and burn out. It's refreshing to see that there is much more that we can do in social work aside from the norm.

[@LifeWithLocc]

Wow, a SW from South Africa, so dope to see you here!! & yessss, we can operate in endless capacities & I hope this brought clarity 🫶🏾✨

[@geneva7265]

I’m also a MSSW and have had the degree and in the space the last 5 years. I also agree 100% as I’m not desiring to remain in the traditional social work space. I’d love a PM role for sure. Literally the whole video I kept saying “this is me”. Thank you!

[@LifeWithLocc]

I’m so glad you can relate!! I knew there were more out there like me 🙌🏾

[@sashagiles2831]

I am an LCSW now and This testimony has validated all of me and my story. Girl thank you. We have got to link up and share some creative ideas

[@Doctormycurls]

I loved hearing your journey. I can't wait to see where this new found love for program/project management takes you. SN: being able to relate with your clients HITS DIFFERENT!! I loveee it.

[@LifeWithLocc]

I know right, I’m super excited for 2023, my next stop is my PMP!! & yesss, the work feels even more impactful 🫶🏾🥰

[@leahgetchell730]

Yes - I am SO glad to have found this video, and all the comments. It is SO affirming. I finished my MSW here in Canada just over a year ago. I had the vision (during the 'pandemonium I think you called it, SUCH a great word!) to do my MSW (I already have an MA in Anthropology....) and I'd thought I'd work part time in the hospital and do part time private practice. I even set up my counselling business and gave it a go for a few months...then very quickly felt like...I cannot do this forever. I have 20+ years of program coordination and evaluation experience before doing my MSW and I felt like all those skills were not being utilized. I'm now in a coordinator role within the hospital and have been struggling with....why am I back where I started? Was the MSW a waste? You are right, this work IS Social Work...at the 'mezzo' level. I'm helping design and create the systems/programs that are going to be of SERVICE to thousands of patients and families. I'm also serving those I work with every day as an informal leader - with some dope SW skills to boot (what would the world be like if all program managers were SW'ers?!). So...THANK YOU for sharing your story. Maybe there's a podcast/video series idea here....interviewing other SW's who are in 'non-traditional' SW roles?! Sign me up, I'd love to come on and chat with you ;) Blessings! Leah

[@carrie6749]

I loved your video!! I can relate to so many things. I never wanted to do clinical work. My dream was macro social work, but couldn’t find any macro work. I’m a clinical social worker (in the DMV), repeatedly being burnt out in case mgmt jobs. I started the Google PMP course, I’m going to finish it. Thank you so much for this push!!

[@LifeWithLocc]

There you go!! Getting certs are a great way to beef up your professional background to gain greater knowledge/experience!!

[@marzmakeup0412]

Your video just brought me a sense of peace. I feel like for the past 2 years I have been really thinking about leaving the field. I had the exact that “I can’t do this anymore” and I left lost not knowing were to go. Non traditional social work stands out to me just didn’t know where to start! Now I do! Thank you for sharing ❤

[@Sunshine-ew7fn]

I found your channel in the BGSW group & I am glad I did. I did travel SW & man it was amazing, I hate working regular 9 to 5 I prefer contracts & the flexibility. But my assignments weren't signing off on my Clinical hours & I am back to a 9 to 5 [i am less than a month away from completing the hours]. But I plan to do doula certification & finding an internship to gain skills. I want my LCSW but I don't want to work traditional SW jobs anymore... so thank you for this video some days I feel so alone & when I tell people I am over traditional SW / 9 to 5 folks think I'm crazy. We can help people but there are so many other ways..

[@LifeWithLocc]

Agreed that we can help people in so many ways!! I’m happy to see you still going for that license! ✨

[@MP-xy2oq]

Wow wow wow. I feel seen. I have a similar journey from Psychology to Social Work. Literally looking into scrum master now. Social Work is DRAINING & the pay is NOT IT. NEEDED this.

[@LifeWithLocc]

Depending on the role, SW can def take you there 😮‍💨 hoping you find clarity & thank you so much for watching!! I’m glad it resonated 🥹🫶🏾

[@bonitasimmons4905]

Proud of you Sis! Keep seeking what works for YOU❤️

[@LifeWithLocc]

You always have the best comments!! Love you BoBo 🫶🏾❤️

[@bettylouis9698]

Thank you so much for posting this! I’m getting my MSW and it’s so helpful to know that there’s more out there than therapy cuz I definitely don’t want to take that route lol

[@LifeWithLocc]

I know right! Social workers really do wear multiple hats and our work resonated in SEVERAL fields!! Thanks for requesting 😁

[@theprototype_]

Currently researching project management for my big pivot. Thank you for this!

[@LifeWithLocc]

Hey social work sis!! I say go for it. I see on your channel that you were interested in macro social work. There’s def PM roles related to that! 🤍

[@theprototype_]

@@LifeWithLocc thank you!

[@VeraMar-g3y]

I love seeing a conversation inviting us to pursue happiness for ourselves and not burn out from service oriented work. I am in the process of applying to grad schools and confused about if I want to pursue a MSW or MHC track. I found your dialogue to give me a fresh perspective of aligning with my goals and values, and possible challenges thats helping me feel good about my decision to pursue MHC. Thanks!

[@LifeWithLocc]

@@VeraMar-g3y comments like this make me so happy! Let me know if I can answer any questions 🥰🩵

[@alainacapers3786]

I really needed to see this video, thank you !

[@LifeWithLocc]

So glad it was helpful! 🥰

[@JennyKateri26]

Wow, I am a Social Worker, and now doing a Project Management Certificate, I still don't know what I gonna do in my life, to be honest, but since I was in college I always thought that as SW we are also prepared to manage and lead, also to guide big projects, because as a professional we have a clear vision that sometimes our clients don't have. I found this video looking for ideas of what kind of final project/assessment I can do for my course. This is the second time I have tried this course because I really like it, but in the pandemic, I couldn't finish it. So, you make think that maybe I am wrong to think if getting a PMP certificate is too much ambitious or not!!! Definitely God guide me to see this video! I want to have a baby and a pet too, when you talked about your husband you made me think about my one, who always asks me to change my job or find another type of position. I'm also considering managing my private life with the ridiculous hours I must spend at work. Listening to you, I am not feel bad anymore. Thank you!!! I you make more videos talking about your daily task would be great!! I need to know how to quit this job and start a new life too!!! Thank you!!

[@LifeWithLocc]

Awwww wow, this made me smile 🥹 Go for it, don’t stay in a position where you’re unhappy. Seek after the position you want, social workers are needed in so many spaces! Wishing you all the best 🥰🫶🏾 p.s. I have a PM vlog coming up very soon! Stay tuned 🤍

[@yamileynelson6273]

Thank you so much for this video, I am burnt out from the field however your video gives me the confidence and courage to do something.

[@LifeWithLocc]

You’re so welcome sis!! Social work is so large, we fit into endless industries, so I say switch it up a lil bit 🙌🏾👏🏾

[@TishRenee]

Thank you for this, I was nodding my head and relating you you this entire video. As a burned out social worker, I am currently working on my exit plan into tech.

[@LifeWithLocc]

Yessss, sounds like confirmation. Go for that pivot, we fit into endless spaces! 🫶🏾

[@jesssss352]

Social work is exhausting. I am looking to pivot as soon as I can.

[@giovonnajones6394]

I was watching your video on being a scrum master and came across this video as well. I’m an LSW in healthcare and I’m burned out 😅 I’m looking to pivot into something else and your video is very insightful!!

[@LifeWithLocc]

I’m so glad it was helpful!! 🩵

[@Fika_time]

I really appreciate you talking about leaving social work. Blessing to you ❤

[@LifeWithLocc]

Always a social worker at heart! Thanks for tuning in 🥰🩵

[@LavenderDream-j5h]

I am currently getting my MSW, and honestly, I'm over learning about the theories. I have a LOT of life experience in the area, and most of the stuff I'm learning I already know. I feel like I am not learning anything new. I got my bachelor in psychology, so I couldn't go in on the advanced track, which is super annoying because the first year, it's like you are learning the same stuff all over again. They say its different, but the theories are all the same. I'm hoping that once this year is over and I start my internship, it will become more interesting, but I am losing my motivation to do it. I am thinking about getting my certification in PMP. I do not want to do clinical work as an MSW. I knew that going in, which is why I didn't go for a masters in psychology. I do, however, want to go the advocacy, policy, and / or organizational route, but they say you have to get your clinical to do that as well. I feel like school is nothing but a scam. They don't really teach you that much to prepare you for the real world. Also you still have to continue to pay for certifications and licenses after the fact. How things work in school is not how it is in the field. I'm annoyed and tired of everything so idk anymore. I also do not want to work directly with people, to be honest. I am already burnt out from life and do not want to take on other peoples trauma, but I still want to help, just not directly. I am not sure what I want to do anymore, but I feel like I'm already on this path, so I have to keep going.

[@LifeWithLocc]

Totally understand! I was in this place during the final year in my MSSW program. If it’s not too late, can you take up a speciality in organizational leadership or project management? I remember my MSSW offered that but I found out too late, but that is definitely in alignment with the PM track! Since you’re already in your program, don’t quit! Maybe just talk to your advisor to see how you can shift from the clinical route based on where you are, even if it’s taking a PM course if it’s offered. Or explore what other options are it there! Make lemonade with lemons. See what else is offered based on where you are right now! 🩵

[@rozon6152]

Wow thank you so much for this! I was also told to get an LCSW instead and wanting to go to higher education to make more money. Definitely inspired me to take a chance on myself

[@LifeWithLocc]

LCSW is def not our only options!! You can def go into higher ed with SW experience. We are 100% needed in the educational space!

[@nkengefehnkeng3731]

Omg this video is making me consider my options right now. I am working on passing my PSM 1 certification. I also have been contemplating starting a MSW, this year! please make a video on non traditional social work roles!

[@LifeWithLocc]

I’m overdue for a new video on this topic, I gotchu!! 🩵

[@lazaruslynch3034]

So proud and happy for you!

[@LifeWithLocc]

Thank you! 🥰

[@toyaballenger9504]

Thanks. I went to UofL as well but a long time ago.

[@LifeWithLocc]

L’s up!! 🤩

[@ciarajca25]

I saw this video at the perfect time cause I’m stressseddd

[@LifeWithLocc]

Whew, girl!! 😵‍💫

[@therapistinthewoods]

I am considering getting a MSW but I am stuck, because it costs $84,000 for the tuition and to get the degree in 16 months, you have to not work and do the degree full time and with all this ---------> I am hearing people say they are getting burned out in the role. How to make the leap and spend the money, when so many people get burned out? sounds risky...Thank you for explaining the program manager option.

[@LifeWithLocc]

Very good point! I think with any career comes risk of burnout. You have to make sure you’re going after the degree for the overall positive benefits & because YOU want to. Don’t let the horror stories sway you from doing what you’re ultimately passionate about!

[@deairahill806]

I need this! I just received my masters and I don’t want to do it anymore. I’m exhausted

[@LifeWithLocc]

Awwww, I truly know that feeling sis! Is your masters in social work? The beautiful thing about our field is that we can flourish in multiple industries!

[@ariaryayy7314]

I'm ready to leave. Everyone encouraged me to get a Masters and I said no. Im glad I didn't because I have no passion for it anymore. Its not fulfilling me anymore. Its just burning me out now. I'm just ready to pivot into more office type work and work on becoming an author which is my true goal in life.

[@ccw8543]

Thank you for posting this video. It is definitely very helpful. I do have a a few questions for you and the other social workers that might be on the video thread. While pursuing your program, was there an option to do Macro Social Work i.e. policy? And would that track provide opportunities to use your project management skills? And lastly, do you think the macro social work track could prepare one to be an administrator? Thank you for sharing your knowledge!

[@LifeWithLocc]

Good questions! Yes, my program did teach us about macro based social work but felt more like work geared toward policy/state government work that would require an interest in politics heavily, which wasn’t my vibe personally. Looking back, I wish I would’ve explored more internship opportunities that gave me a variety of options instead of just what the majority was going for which was the clinical/therapeutic route!

[@Ms_Neffie]

I feel like God is spiritually calling me to become a social worker. Although I know it’s a draining and thankless profession. I’ve always taken care of people so why not do it professionally. Thank you for this video though. It lets me know what I’m about to get into lol 😂. I’m about to enter into a Bachelors Social Work Degree Program.

[@LifeWithLocc]

I don’t regret pursuing social work at all!! I’ve learned invaluable skills and feel like a pro when it comes to working with people, even in a non traditional SW role. You will enjoy what you do as long as you have boundaries and a supportive team! 🩵

[@Ms_Neffie]

@@LifeWithLocc thank you so much for the advice and sharing your story 😘! You’re helping people like me.

[@MarjyGTV]

I feel God is calling me to do this as well 🤯 Been a nurse for almost 10 years and I'm over it HOWEVER I looove helping people and love outreaching to the community around me, I love helping people so much just not the nursing side of it. When you felt the calling, did it feel like a fire being lit?? Its so intense..

[@SammyNdlovu1212]

@@Ms_Neffieyou’ll find that the calling and what on ground is different! Social work is no longer social work. No one gives a s*** anymore as many social workers are over worked and struggle to meet timescales

[@jesssss352]

The secondary trauma is real. A BSW will be a good place to start and see how you feel about the field.

[@simpleexpression11]

Great video…..

[@LifeWithLocc]

Thank you!! 🩵

[@laselecta9012]

Watching this as a burned out Youth Corrections officer in BC.

[@LifeWithLocc]

Take your time to think about your 6-12 month plan and go for it!! Sending you all the good vibes, that work is not easy 🩵✨

[@dewannaglow8365]

I’m an adoption case manager and everyone’s going back for their masters. I’m just not feeling it.. If I’m going to be over worked, I need the money to match 🥲

[@LifeWithLocc]

That part!!! It’s like you have to get 10 diff licenses just to earn a decent pay! Transfer them skills to a new industry sis, you won’t regret it 🙃🩵

[@marzmakeup0412]

Your video just brought me a sense of peace. I feel like for the past 2 years I have been really thinking about leaving the field. I had the exact that “I can’t do this anymore” and I left lost not knowing were to go. Non traditional social work stands out to me just didn’t know where to start! Now I do! Thank you for sharing ❤