Career change after a layoff, where to begin? (update)

I want to move from mechanic to something with more stability. I would rather hear the honest version than the polite one. My family is supportive but nervous. Did you take a pay cut?

Try a small project in the new field before committing. It told me a lot about whether I would enjoy it.

I began with informational chats, then a short online course, then a related entry-level role. It took about 8 months.