Hi I'm in desperate need of some good advice!
I have worked for the same company for almost 10 years, which majority of my time was working in the same department, but I worked my way up the career ladder from a clerical position to a team manager. I was a team manager for roughly 5 years and really enjoyed working with people, I was highly confident in my role and knew the processes inside and out. I received excellent feedback on my performance every year and was seen as top talent in my location.
My husband and I decided to start a family alomost two years ago and my priorities completely changed. I realised I had found myself and loved every moment of motherhood. When having conversation with my employers before returning to work from a year off on maternity leave, it was very clear I wouldn't be able to return to my old position on flexible working hours, I asked for 3 days, but minimum they would offer was 4 days in a new role, which I accepted as financially couldn't afford to give up my job.
I have been back for 10 months and still struggling in my new role and have since realised I was in a complete comfort bubble in my old career. My new role requires a lot more mentally and I'm not sure I am suited to the challenge or the type of work. I have started thinking about perhaps starting for baby number two, but also tied with whether I should leave my job and look for something part time 2.5 days maximum, closer to home (current job involves two hours commuting) and take a lower position with less responsibility. Meaning I can take a career break and enjoy watching and being a big part of my childrens life in their younger years, then perhaps restudy or return to climbing the ladder. But I need help as every day this goes round and round in my head and I'm scared I will make the wrong choice.
Sorry for the essay, but I couldn't think of a shorter way to ask for advice without giving you the full picture.