Posted by JenStar on April 24, 2005, at 23:10:33
In reply to Stuggling to stay in High-Stress Work Enviroment-, posted by StaciW on April 24, 2005, at 18:45:29
hi Staci,
I gave up a high-paced high level technical job to pursue a career in the arts -- a COMPLETE 180 turn! At first it was extremely difficult, because I had identified myself so closely with my job title and my work. It was hard NOT to be able to introduce myself as "so and so" from "this company".I was able to do it only becuase my husband has been very supportive of me, and because our finances allowed us to get by on one salary (pretty much!). It was difficult to leave my high pay, but I was really itching to try something else. I'm glad I did it. I'm not making a lot of money (yet, hopefully), but I know I can always go back to the tech world if I need to or start missing it too much. I know I can't have my old job back, but I'm confident I could get SOMETHING and work my way back up.
Remember that your skills stay with YOU, not the company. If you leave, you CAN come back to a similar job in the future. If your finances can afford it, and your spouse is supportive, there is nothing wrong with trying something different. You only live once! It's ok to take risks sometimes. I would say, though, to make sure that you REALLY want to leave. If it's just a temporary burst of stress, don't make a rash decision. But if it's something you really want to do, then go and see what else is out there. (my 2 cents worth!)
Good luck with the decision. I hope you're happy with whatever choice you end up making! Keep us updated. :)
take care,
JenStar
poster:JenStar
thread:488925
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/social/20050418/msgs/489077.html