Focusing on career with a new baby in hand.
I’m in a job now that’s 70% mind-numbingly boring/frustrating and 30% great; I’ve been here for almost 5 years. Almost a year ago, I had a daughter and have been able to stay at home with her on Fridays (for a pay cut). I couldn’t be happier with my home life situation, but my job is really wearing on me. I’m now being recruited for a few opportunities, both inside and outside of my company, most of which would be more interesting and with more pay, but none would allow for this 80% work schedule. So my home life would surely suffer. I guess the question is how do I advance in my career while also being happy at home? Is this even possible?
I think it’s pretty hard to advance in your career when there are young kids at home.
After a kid hits 3 year old, things really really get different. But it’s hard for me to tell you to focus on advancement instead of staying home with your daughter on Fridays. You have the next sixty years to create a great career. You have twelve more months of being home with an infant.
Here’s another way to think about things: Your career isn’t going anywhere if you just stay at your job. Your job, if you let it, can be a great break from childcare. It is pretty calm to be at work when compared to taking care of a baby. So maybe right now, work is just a rest stop.
Also, what about negotiating more time at home so that the job is not so annoying because you’re not there as often?
Okay. Here’s another answer. If you don’t like that one:
Take the new job, perform really well for a year and then ask for Friday’s off again. You could probably do that if you are great at the job.
Penelope
Thanks for putting it into perspective. I hate thinking of things in terms of absolutes. Simultaneously, I want a path forward myself (kind of selfish that way). It’s weird that I don’t know all of the options available…