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AIBU?

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Original poster

To reduce from three days at work to two when my eldest starts school?

58 replies

jumpaboardapirateship · 22/10/2024 09:43

My DS starts school next year. I currently work three days but this doesn’t really work with the school we’d ideally like him to go to: their before and after school sessions aren’t early enough.

I could just reduce my time by three hours and start an hour later but it would still be a rush at the end of the day. I am considering dropping a whole day and therefore starting an hour later three days a week and finishing two hours early one day a week. Part of me thinks it’s a bit indulgent as I still have a younger child in childcare but I’ve felt so rushed this year I’m keen to avoid that.

OP posts:
vincettenoir · 22/10/2024 10:11

I don’t think this is a dilemma as much as asking for permission to drop your hours. You absolutely don’t need permission but here it is if you need it.

Original poster
jumpaboardapirateship · 22/10/2024 10:10

Why struggle if you don't have to

I think this is what my mantra needs to be! This year to be honest has been awful! I’m so stressed all the time. I just want an end to that.

OP posts:
WinterFollies · 22/10/2024 10:08

Do it.

I wish I'd done similar when mine were young. Why struggle if you don't have to - it will make your home life - and general life - so much calmer and more pleasant.

Original poster
jumpaboardapirateship · 22/10/2024 10:07

DH would rather I just dropped the hours we strictly need which I understand but ultimately he’s not the one running round like a blue arsed fly!

Career isn’t affected, well it is. But im not seeking promotion,

OP posts:
DoublePeonies · 22/10/2024 10:06

Could you do the same hours, but spread over 4 days?

Is there another patent who could do some of the drop offs or collections to allow you to shift your day to do the other one (ie so eone start later, and do the drop off, someone start vet early to collect).

Don't forget to factor how school holidays will work with whatever schedule you move to.

Heidi00 · 22/10/2024 09:54

It is indulgent, but does it work for your family set up? Can you afford it? Will your pension be OK? Do you have a partner and do they agree?

purplebeansprouts · 22/10/2024 09:50

Depends on your job. Some jobs it would work fine. Others it's going to be a right pain for you only being there 2 days a week. If you're trying to reduced hours each day instead of whole days you have to be mindful you don't try and cram a whole "normal" day into your hours.

JumpstartMondays · 22/10/2024 09:45

Can you afford it?
How will it impact your career progression/ opportunities?
Are your employers likely to agree to it?

If yes, not at all, and yes then go for it.