the career ladder - should i continue to climb it?

[tonton]

I've been working in my industry for nearly 12 years. In that time I've had 2 kids and certainly have not scaled the dizzy heights that some of my (male) colleagues from early on have achieved.

But I'm doing OK. I'm the main breadwinner in our family and work fulltime. I find myself at a bit of a potential crossroads. I've swapped companies a few times and have been in this one for nealry 2 years. There's a good chance I'll be made redundant in a month or 2. I've had some calls from recruiters about other jobs (I know - lucky me in this climate eh?).
But the jobs are all big(ish) steps up.

My question is how ambitious do other fulltime workign mumsnetters feel?

Part of me feels I should show the big swinging d**cks what I'm made of...and part of me can't be bothered. And feels a little intimidated and lacking confidence and that I'll be shown up as the inadequate female that I am. But then if I'm in the office all the time anyway maybe I owe it to myself to progress as far as possible and be a good example for my dds?

[LadyPenelope]

No-one but you knows what will be best for you ... (annoying but true!)

You could try looking at your values ... one simple way to start is to think about what are the 5 things most important about work for you? What are the 5 things most important about home?

When you look at your list, what do you think/notice?

[MarshaBrady]

I think you would grow in confidence once there, and be fine.

But I wouldn't do it purely to be an example to your dds as I doubt they would understand the difference? (might be wrong ds is only 3 so dont know how that works)

The only thing to consider is would the commitment be greater, ie more time in office. And would it have more of an impact on your family life?

[tonton]

It's funny re the time commitment thing. i always imagine that a more senior role woukld more m=time in the office. But then I look at the senior management around me and they leave at 5.30!

I do worry about being away from my kids. I'm often away 3 days a week travelling. But at the same time I feel proud that I'm providing for them. And I make a strenuous effort to home for bed and bath most of the time.

Is anyone else climbing the greasy pole then?

[RosieStrachs]

Dear tonton
have you read 'I don't know how she does it?' by Allison Pearson? It's pretty lite but thought-provoking too and addresses this subject. Would recommend...