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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

Am I being deluded to think I can do this job as the main caregiver for DS?

56 replies

Usally · 11/04/2025 19:40

DP works away in the week and whilst he certainly does his bit financially, it’s me who does the nursery runs, pick ups when Ds is unwell etc you get the picture. I have a professional job which has stagnated since maternity leave. Ds will be three in august.

I decided to apply for a couple of better paid jobs which would be a step up for me professionally too. Somehow I’ve managed to get two offers… but here’s the dilemma…

Job 1: 28k pay rise, four days in the office, car allowance. Can leave in time for nursery pick up.

Job 2: 10k pay rise, two or three days in the office depending on the week. Can leave in time for nursery pick up.

Both are in the same location so travel not really a factory, it’s about 25 mins from the nursery (nursery ten mins from our house).

At the moment I work nearly totally remotely. I am hesitant as to whether i will manage so much office/travel etc. I know people do it but I wonder if I’m being a bit silly trying to earn more and progress while ds is still so small. It’s nearly impossible to find part time work in this industry so I can’t really look for less hours. I feel really conflicted as I do want progress but also want to be a good mum and I feel a lot of office time might affect that or make me more tired and less engaged with DS when we get home. Thoughts very welcome!

OP posts:
FirefIy · 11/04/2025 19:49

What’s your current salary? If you’re currently in £200k, £28k of a difference isn’t going to be as much of a lure for reduced flexible whereas it might be if you’re currently on £30k.

Usally · 11/04/2025 19:48

MellowPinkDeer · 11/04/2025 19:47

Job 1. Totally doable. Even when married my husband worked away when the kids were small , my routine was better when he was out of the way!! Good luck!

@MellowPinkDeer do you say that because of the better pay?

OP posts:
maybein2022 · 11/04/2025 19:48

Does your partner have any flex at all, ie if DS is sick can he get back within a decent amount of time to pick your son up or is there absolutely no way? Do you have any friends or family who could be called upon to help? Are the 4 days in the office in job 1 fixed days (ie every Friday WFH)? I’d be tempted to go for job 1, it’s a big pay rise (although have you done the maths on the tax?)

MellowPinkDeer · 11/04/2025 19:47

Job 1. Totally doable. Even when married my husband worked away when the kids were small , my routine was better when he was out of the way!! Good luck!

Usally · 11/04/2025 19:46

@maybein2022 yes they are

OP posts:
maybein2022 · 11/04/2025 19:45

Are both jobs FT, OP?