On paper the decision I have to make is a "no brainer" but I am struggling to make the leap so would appreciate your thoughts and/or experiences please.
In brief I am a public sector employee (don't want to say more than that) and am in a fairly specialised field.
To progress in my job (and retain pension benefits etc...) I would normally have to move to London where most jobs are based. I have been lucky to be working in my field in my preferred location in UK for three years.
I absolutely love the small team I work with - we are on good terms, back each other up and are supportive of each other . I never dread going into work and I know they have my back and vice versa.
The problem is I can stay here for another three (or ten) years and the chances of progressing (grade, financial, experience, responsibility) will not happen.
A job has come up that I could apply for (yes I know it's not in the bag but I know I have a very good chance of getting it for a variety of reasons).
This new job is also within public sector (so still same benefits, pension,
holidays etc...) It is £12K more than I am on now. More importantly it is a grade higher AND in the same city (where I want to stay).
DH thinks I am mad for even hesitating in applying (but is supportive either way) - even my boss says I'd be mad not to consider it. I never realised how important those things (friendship, support etc...) were but now I am struggling to think straight.
I could apply and then see what happens but I know from past experience these things have a way of snowballing - so can anyone advise please?!