The Cost of Chasing My Automotive Career

What up my people! What’s going on? I hope you’re all doing well on this magnificent day!

Today’s post is a bit more personal, one of those twists of a post for you. Don’t worry, it’s still automotive related, don’t think I’m flipping on you guys! It’s about the real cost of chasing a dream career as a vehicle mechanic, or vehicle technician if you wanna get fancy. It’s something I’ve wanted to do for as long as I can remember, but the path here hasn’t been as smooth as a freshly surfaced B-road.

More Than Just a Job

Being a vehicle technician isn’t just a job to me. It’s a long-term goal I’ve had the hopes of achieving, but getting here has meant making some serious sacrifices along the way.

Let’s start with the process, something I’m still going through just to add. I’m an apprentice, so on top of being paid the bare minimum, I can get to the end of 2 and a half years of hard work, and not come out with anything whatsoever. It’s up to me to put the work in and get the achievement at the end of it, and that’s quite a bit of stress for anyone.

But then doing this later on in life, 27 years old to be precise, other things add onto that stress. There’s the obvious stuff: Mortgage payments that never stop, bills that keep coming and maintenance on my own car because that doesn’t pause just because I’m in the trade.

There’s also the smaller things people don’t see. Like taking on a second job to make ends meet, being unable to make plans because that money’s needed elsewhere, and missing out on the simple joys such as a Sunday drive because I have no time.

On top of that, the strain on my relationship with my girlfriend and my mates. When your time and money are stretched so thin, date nights are non-existent and plans often get pushed back for work or financial reasons. It’s a tough balance to strike, and one I’m still figuring out.

The Hidden Costs No One Talks About

When you picture working in the automotive industry, it’s easy to see the dream. Fixing cars you love, building experience and knowledge as well as just being on the front lines of this so called car culture. What you don’t often hear about are the late nights studying, the stretched paychecks, and the times when your own passion takes a back seat so you can keep moving forward.

There’s a certain irony to it, isn’t there? Spending your days fixing other people’s cars while your own sits waiting.

On top of all that, obviously there’s the buying of tools to do the job, unfortunately the company doesn’t provide those so it’s on me to build up my own toolbox. It’s a rabbit hole to say the least, and one that leaves your wallet much lighter.

Is It Worth It?

Honestly, yes. Every sacrifice I make now is a step towards something bigger. I didn’t get into this thinking it was gonna be easy; I got into it because I can’t imagine myself doing another job.

Sure, I miss the spontaneous drives. I miss saying “let’s go” without first checking the bank balance. And yes, I wish I had more time to just enjoy life with my girlfriend without that constant thought in the back of my mind about money or work. But what I’m building now, the skills, the experience and ultimately, a career I’m proud of. It all means there will be more chances down the line.

Thinking About This Path Yourself?

If you’re looking to start your own journey as a vehicle technician or in the automotive world or any job for that matter, here’s what I’d say.

• Firstly, it’s never too late. Don’t let your age hold you back, there’s so much support these days you wouldn’t believe it.

• Be ready to sacrifice most of your weekends because it’s part of the grind.

• Budget like you mean it because your passion will still be there tomorrow.

• Keep your loved ones in the loop because they’re sacrificing time to be with you too.

• Don’t lose sight of why you started because that’s what keeps you moving forward.

It’s not always easy, but if it’s truly what you want, those sacrifices start to feel less like losses and more like investments in your future.

Your Turn

Have you had to put your hobby or time with loved ones on hold to build your career? What’s been the toughest part for you: time, money, or relationships? Drop it below, I’d love to hear your stories.

Next post: how a cheap car can turn into a not so cheap car. The snowball of spending on a cheap marketplace find.

But until then, stay safe and as always, enjoy the ride.

E.