To take an 18k a year job that I might enjoy more?

[cloverlily]

Hi,
I’m a nurse and although the pay is good, I’m finding that nursing just isn’t where my heart is anymore. To stay in it would be just for the salary. The long and unsociable hours are really getting to me even though I’ve only been qualified for 3 years.

I’ve got the chance to take up a job in childcare and of course, it doesn’t pay well. But the hours would be more like standard working hours rather than having to do awful long night shifts! I also think I’d enjoy working with young children.

The only thing that’s putting me off is the lower pay.

So AIBU to take the job and put enjoyment before salary?

If you can manage on that salary then absolutely take the job you think you'll enjoy. Job satisfaction is so important and makes a huge difference to your general wellbeing.

Could you look at ways to work your way up to a community role related to your nursing qualification - could you do postgraduate training, maybe in a child centered specialism (SaLT, immunisations?), or train as a health visitor?
If you do go for the £18k role, can you do bank work to keep your PIN in case you want to go back?
Money isn't everything but unless you are mortgage free with no childcare costs (now or in the future), I'd be careful about taking a salary cut.

It is partly dependent upon your financial circumstances. If you are able to manage then go for it.

As you have already studied and have a nursing qualification you might find that you will be able to find a more senior and better paid role within childcare once you have the relevant experience. Good luck

The grass isn’t always greener. A job most of the time becomes a mundane type job after the novelty wears off.

You’ve done all that training and would lose your Pin.

Can’t you investigate other nursing roles with better hours, loads of stuff. Practice nurse, day clinic staff, theatre nurse (less nights), train to be a health visitor, clinical education, specialise in something like infection control, risk....

I would think very carefully, it's not just pay but pension, annual leave, sick policy etc. Do you have a long term goal? Can you afford £18k indefinitely? Think about pension options etc.

But yes of course, life is too short and enjoyment is paramount, but there's always a compromise.