First of all, I realise how very lucky I am to be in the position of having this decision to make. I work PT with a great flexible arrangement in a very well-paid job. Although it is PT, I am still out of the house 11 hours a day for 3 days a week, and one day working from home (+ one day off). My partner works in a very senior, very well paid job in the financial services sector and whilst he is a very hands on dad when he is there, he travels a lot (almost weekly at the moment). I always loved my work but since I returned to my current position 18 months ago my heart has not been in it. I feel burnt out and bored. I don't give it 100% anymore. Nothing inspires me. I am cynical and I am easily distracted. Our children are 2 and 5 and I didn't like the little baby stage...but I really, really enjoy them now (most of the time!). I can see now my 5 year old is at school how he is going to need us more and more to help with homework, etc. I am worn out with the rushing, the scheduling, the planning, the commuting, the constant plate spinning. In a nut shell, I am considering quitting my job to go back and study for a career management/coaching qualification or an organizational psychology qualification. These areas really interest me and my current role has touched on career coaching very slightly. Long-term I could set up my own coaching business in the sector I have always worked in. I lack confidence (in a big way) and I worry that I haven't got what it takes to set up my own business....which is pathetic, I know. But right now the only reason I go to work is to do something different and be able to spend what I want. However at best it doesn't make me happy, and at worst it makes me bored and miserable (and occasionally stressed - I have suffered from stress in the past).
I am terrified of taking the leap. I am terrified of be not ever being able to get a job again. However, I know I can't keep doing this job as it is destroying my soul....has anyone else out there made a leap like this? Any advice?