Today a supervisor asked me if I had thought about becoming an assistant manager. He foresees an opening in the next few months. I panicked. I could literally feel my throat closing. I knew if I was offered this position, I would have to take it. The pay would be livable, but not great. It would make me marketable for better positions in banking over the years. But it would keep me in banking. For years.
I used to think, I wanted to be a banker. In reality I fell into it shortly out of college and have stayed in the field on and off for a few decades now. I know that many would love to have a job, any job, right now. Much less one with a chance for a small promotion. And not too many weeks ago I was one of those people. But I just spent my first summer not seeing my kids. They did their things all day, every day. I worked and when I got home, I was so unhappy, I slept. Now my girls and I are struggling with a whole lot of exhausting emotional issues and I feel like I need to be rejuvenated by my job. Not even more exhausted.
I know that I can live for about 8 months on my savings and what is left of my retirement fund. And yes I know I shouldn't touch the retirement fund, but after watching it shrink for the past 18 months, it is harder for me to think of it as "savings." I feel a big decision coming on in the next two weeks. I wish I knew what it would be.
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Hmmm, tough decision. You have to wonder if somebody isn't trying to tell you something with the supervisor job opening up. On the other hand I completely understand wanting something else. The only way to make it happen is to just go make it happen.
ReplyDeleteBTW you, my dear, have every right to hate me right now. But remember I've been where you are and if you ever need anything, I'll be here ready to lend a hand.
R, you might as well take the opportunity if it presents itself. There is nothing that says you can't continue looking for something better and you may as well make more money while you are looking. IMO.
ReplyDeleteP
I'm going to go the other way. While I don't think you should touch your retirement (not because I don't understand that it's virtually worthless, but because after you factor in the huge losses and the tax penalties, it just wouldn't be worth it)...I think you should pursue your dreams and passions. Find something that works for you and your family. How about something in the schools? Substituting or something? I know you've said earlier you don't like public school, but at least you would be on the same schedule and it would give you time to study for the RE license. Or how about doing some freelance writing? Doesn't help with the whole health insurance thing, though.
ReplyDeleteThanks everyone for the input. I know what I should do. I'm just not going to be able to make myself do it.
ReplyDeleteI have substitued in the school - once. I may do it again, if it comes down to feeding my kids or not, but that is about the only thing that will make me do it again.