Please don't hate me....

[Monnie]

I have just given up work (long story) as I am studying for a career change, so I plan on going back to work in about 1-2 years time.

I have loved being with DS full time for the last week, but I must admit that I did something quite odd yesterday.

I went into town with my mum and nephew and I insisted that I wore my 'Next' casuals as opposed to my trackie-bottoms and t-shirt and then when we were in town, every time I walked past women in their work clothes, I found myself trying to give off an air of 'I used to work in a high-pressured environment and this situation is only temporary'.

I feel awful about this and I think it's a
syptom(?) of that fact that worked since I graduated and I have difficulty adjusting to the situation subconciously. Also, although I'm 32, I look about 12 so I'm conscious that people may think I'm this 'irresponsible teen, etc, etc'.

Please, please tell me that other mothers who gave up work felt or feel that same and tell me it will pass.

I'm very proud of being a mum (one of only 3 things I have been truly commited to) so am currently feeling really bad.

Ok, will stop rambling now!

Hi Pamina, what has happened with your work situation, did you tell us on the other thread and I missed it? I am wondering if your colleague is still with you and how it is panning out for you. Sorry you are feeling disillusioned with your working conditions right now.Work is hard enough when you're feeling great about it.

Some of the experiences outlined here make me realise that even though I wish I did not have to work, and would give up or cut right back given the financial choice, I am so lucky to have a job which I generally find rewarding and where I am generally able to make a difference. I can't believe that some of the people here have been so insulted and ground down in the workplace, I was really incensed on your behalf.
Librarianship does not pay well and has a dorky image, but it is a family-friendly profession on the whole and has a LOT of women/"new man" type managers. Plus you are helping people from all walks of life achieve life-long learning - without having to teach. I can recommend it for career changers provided you don't mind earning pence and being laughed at in parties.
I'm so glad Batters has found her niche and I hope you do too soon Tigermoth. And that they pull their fingers out at your place, Pamina.

Thanks for your kind words, Marina and Batters. It's always nice to know good jobs really do exist, even if they take some finding (3 years Batters - what tenacity!)

I have worked in the private sector for 15 years in various advertising and design agencies. While not closing the door on this, I am now also looking for writer/editor posts in the public sector, like the Government Information and Communication Service(GICS) and the Central Office of Information (COI). I wonder if I am correct in thinking that as a public sector employee I'd tend to get more respect? Obviously, flexible working hours and longer holidays help with the work/life balance.

BTW, has anyone here any experience of working for the COI or the GICS? I have a sheaf of info and application forms to fill in, but any insights would be hugely appreciated.

TIgermoth
I work as a writer/editor in a different part of the Civil Service. In general I'd say they are good to work for - very good on part-time,family friendly (childcare vouchers), good pensions. I work with a lot of really nice people too, which helps.

Best of luck

That's reassuring, Copper - and you have me intrigued. I thought I'd discovered the main civil service departments that employ writers/editors - obviously there are others. I'll have to do more research.