I have a dilemma. Have been in a relatively well paid position with a lot of flexibility at my organisation for 16 years. I work 3-4 days a week depending on term time and holidays and have school aged children. However, I have been very frustrated with my department in last few years, feel very unchallenged and there is no room for progression, growth or promotion. All my peers have left for various reasons and I feel that I am stagnating. However, I have stayed as life outside work is busy with the children and the flexibility has worked for me whilst my husband has a busy career.
An opportunity has come up which looks ideal on paper. Massive step up - a global role - and a hefty pay rise. It’s at a different company so would be a huge adjustment. But it is full time (albeit with some flex for working from home). The only thing holding me back is the change in hours whilst my kids are still in primary school (and youngest won’t leave for another 6 years). We would also have to get more childcare and I would have less downtime and time with kids. I don’t know what to do as if I don’t pursue this, then I feel I might as well stay in my current role forever which is a depressing thought. I could wait 6 years but will be 6 years older and not sure that is a good thing. I do feel happier when busy but perhaps the grass is always greener? We don’t need the pay rise as my husband is the main earner but it certainly would come in handy and is not an insignificant rise. It’s more that I think I would enjoy the role and my self esteem is in need of a boost. However, I worry that I would jeopardise smooth running of family life just to pursue my own goals - and life will certainly be a little more stressful?
I may not get the position so this could all just be hypothetical!! But WWYD?