I've been a SAHM for 2.5 years. I want to go back to work part-time in 2 years, when my youngest will be 2. When the kids are older, I'd like to go full-time and retrain for a professional role.
I qualified as a solicitor but found it too stressful, so I left after qualifying. I then worked in mental health for several years in charitable sector/academia. Was earning around £25k when I left to have my son, who's now two. It wasn't financially viable for me to go back due to high childcare costs. I also now have a five month old daughter. I'd like to earn around that level or higher when I go back full-time.
Whilst working in mental health, I completed a part-time MSc and applied for clinical psychology training. I had several interviews but no offers (it's crazy competitive!) whereas nearly all my colleagues got a place which really knocked my confidence.
I now know I don't want to work in mental health but am scared of trying another sector in case I make the 'wrong' choice again.
Am considering getting a part-time job in a hotel in 2 years and then applying for a hotel management training scheme when the kids are older. However, I know this wouldn't be family friendly hours and worried I might quit again as I miss the kids too much.
I keep going around in circles... 😔 I do want a professional role in the future and am very interested in this sector, but not sure about the working hours. I guess women who want professional careers can't have their cake and eat it!?
Sorry this is so long!!