Are there high paying jobs for high school dropouts?

I'm currently in a tough spot and considering leaving high school. I'd like to know if there are any high paying job opportunities out there for someone who hasn't graduated high school.

While it's typically more challenging to secure high-paying jobs without having a high school diploma, there are certainly some career paths that value skills and experience over formal education. Here are a few options:

1. Entrepreneurs: Launching your own business could allow for significant earning potential depending on the success of your venture. It could be anything from running a mobile food truck to starting a landscaping or cleaning service. Key to this path is developing a solid business plan, identifying a market need, and delivering exceptional service.

2. Trade Professions: Many skilled trades jobs such as electricians, plumbers, and mechanics are taught through apprenticeship programs and don’t require a high school diploma. Some of these jobs can be high paying, especially once you've gained a significant amount of experience.

3. Sales: Jobs in sales also offer possibilities for high earnings, mainly through commissions. Car sales, real estate (though you will require a license), and other goods/services sales could yield substantial income, particularly if you're good at building relationships and can find a product/service you're passionate about selling.

4. High Pay Manual Labor: A number of manual labor jobs can pay well. These could range from construction to waste management or truck driving (you'd need to be at least 18 and pass a written and practical test for a commercial driver's license).

5. Hospitality Industry: While starting salaries in the hospitality industry (restaurants, hotels, etc.) may be lower, there is potential to work up to management positions with higher compensation.

Remember, even without a traditional educational pathway, developing specific skills and gaining experience in your chosen field will be crucial to securing higher-paying jobs over time. And it's never too late to go back and earn your GED if you decide to do so in the future for more opportunities.