HELP! Do I take the job???

[gemlougem]

I really don't know what to do with a job I've been offered, I've been going round in circles and need an outside unbiased opinion!

Firstly, the reason I was looking for another job was becuase I have had a relationship breakdown about 8 months ago and wanted to relocate nearer to my family. However, I really like my current job as it's so flexible with my daughter (I can take time off whenever I like and work from home too).

My current job has no real future prospects though and is not the career I trained in, but it's varied, interesting, safe and I'm the boss! The money is rubbish but the perks make up for it. I'm also co-starting a new business at weekends and evenings with a friend and the flexibility allows me to do it.

The new job is in the location I want, and in the industry I used to work in. It's also interesting, not that much more money, but a better bonus and career prospects. It also means a fresh start, but I'm not going to have any flexibility at all, which is a big change and at this stage of the relationship breakdown I'm wondering whether I will cope!

Is it a fresh start and will the change be positive, or should I stick to my very child friendly job and let the dust settle for a while?

I tried to go with my gut feeling which was to turn it down and stay where I am, the time with my daughter and positives for her were more important than me making a break. Then however, when I told the company they said there was scope in the future to also work from home but only after the probation period.

Any advise??? I would be really appreciative! Thanks in advance!

[bumpybecky]

have you flipped a coin?

if it comes up not to take it and you feel relieved, you know it's the right thing to do. If you feel regret then take the job. If you're still not sure then you're no better off!

Personally I'd stick with flexibility for now but keep on looking for something better

[hatwoman]

fwiw I think it depends a lot on your daughter - how old she is, how well she's coping with the relationship break down, what your childcare options would be if you go for the new job, how well you think she'll take the relocation. I might be wrong but I suspect she's quite young and adaptable? or I think you would have mentioned these things as part of the package. the new job sounds good to me. is there a possibility of more flexibilty in the medium-long term when you're more established?

[gemlougem]

Wow thanks, that was quick!

My little one is three, just, and in a pre school 3 days a week. I then have her while I work from home one day, and so does her Dad. If I move, I'll stick with the three days, however my Mum will be having her the other two.

Not sure what the med-long term felxibility will be, but, if the business takes off which we think is probable, I'm hoping to be doing that full time eventually, which will have the most flexibility.

Done the coin thing, helped initially when I made the decision not to take it and I felt happy about that decision. Then they counter offered the working from home part and now I'm completely confused!

Maybe if it's not a good enough offer to completely sway me I should just stick with this as a less stress option, or maybe the new start will help me get over my old life!