I've applied to 1,000 jobs since earning my master's and am still unemployed. I'm frustrated because I thought I did everything right.

Tech Insider : Business, Economy, Travel
Nicolette Alexandra Brito-Cruz sitting in front of two computers
The author has her master's and still can't find a job.

Courtesy of Nicolette Alexandra Brito-Cruz

I sent my son to Australia alone when he was 13 so he'd be more independent. Now that he's an adult, I get advice from him.

Tech Insider : Business
Mom and son walking on beach
The author (not pictured) raised her kids to be independent.

alyfromuk2us/Getty Images

I was nervous about moving to a 'soulless' commuter city for my job. I'm surprised by how much I love it here.

Tech Insider : Business
The writer and a friend holding drinks and standing in a field in Milton Keynes.
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Anya Diggines

When my kids got their first phones at 10, I made them sign a physical contract. They're teenagers now, and it's still binding.

Tech Insider : Business, Economy, Sports
author's son on the couch with his cellphone
The author's kids had to agree to strict rules before getting a cellphone.

Courtesy of Naomi Tsvirko

My income dropped to less than $12,000 after burnout caused my health to collapse. I had to learn how not to overwork myself.

Tech Insider : Business, Travel
Melissa Drake holding a boquet of flowers
The author had a health crisis that changed her whole life.

Courtey of Melissa Drake

I stayed home with my kids longer than I planned because of childcare costs. It didn't feel like I had much of a choice.

Tech Insider : Business, Environment
Mom and baby
The author stayed home with her kids because of childcare costs.

Courtesy of the author

My son wanted a dog, but I didn't. I helped him start a pet-sitting business instead.

Tech Insider : Business
The author poses with her son and a cat.
The author's animal-loving son, now 20, started a pet-sitting business in 2014 and still keeps in touch with many of his clients today.

Courtesy of Liz Alterman.

I graduated from college with my dream job. I don't know if I'll ever feel that level of success again.

Tech Insider : Business
Laura stands in front of an orange sign that says Studio 1A.
After graduating from college, I got my dream job as an NBC page.

Laura Millar

I had an identity crisis after becoming a mom. Hiring a career coach helped.

Tech Insider : Business, Travel
Mom holding baby

JH Photography/JH Photography

I moved to a resort town in the Italian Alps 8 years ago. Living here has perks, but it's no vacation.

Tech Insider : Business, Environment
The writer standing on a rock on a snowy mountain in the Alps.
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Gemma Johnstone

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