[annie_muss]

I have a choppy resume (for quite a few years my average time on a job was less than 6 months, with gaps). I have a big gap (I started a company that made 0 dollars). I am employed as a software engineer. So clearly it's not impossible.

There are two people you have to convince: the person in charge of hiring and yourself.

After a long time away, health issues, burnout etc it's easy to lose confidence. Find activities that bring back your confidence. Maybe this is a side project. Maybe it's learning something new. Maybe it's mentoring someone who is just starting. If you are constantly doubting yourself job applications will be very mentally draining so choose positive activities that build your skills and actively make you feel more confident.

The next person to convince is the person hiring you. My resume looks crappy. All of my jobs are from word of mouth, in person networking, events and conversations. Sometimes the resume is just a formality or is provided for HR. Sometimes it isn't needed at all.