Update on reducing hours and job!!!

[CurlyTop1980]

I know some may remember me. But for those that don't..I am a social worker of 20 years vintage. I managed an Adolescent Safeguarding Team in West London for years and I was working up to 70 hours a week (only paid for 36). It was full on. Anyway I wanted to update as I received so much support when I was so indecisive about leaving my job.....

I did it. I gave in my notice and left officially in early Jan. Since then I have started as a DSL in a private school working 21 hours a week. I do 3 days.

It has taken me a whole to decompress but once I left my SW hat at the door and realised that I'm no longer responsible for the huge life decisions for vulnerable kids (which kept me up most nights). Some of the things I have noticed

1. I now sleep more than 2/3 hours a night ( I always track my sleep on the fitbit)
2. I do not work over my designated hours.
3. I have time to actually do my washing and house work
4. I can take my kids to and from school and help them with homework.
5. I can actually "chill". Whereas before I would work, cook, work, clean,work,drop kids at activities, work, bed time, work....I literally never stopped.
6. I can attend school events.
7. I can watch shit TV if I want as I have nothing else to do.

Things I still need to sort out,
Lose weight and get into a proper exercise routine. But everything step by step.

I feel great so far. If you have the opportunity do it!

Congrats on having the guts to move job. So brave.

Glad you are enjoying and having more time.

Glad to hear it’s worked out for you, enjoy your new role, and the extra time you have without the stress.

Fabulous! Congratulations on a totally new phase in life and one that you will actually have time to enjoy and savour.

Congratulations :)

Good for you OP, it takes courage and a leap of faith to make such a big change from an established vocation. Feels like leaving a bit your identity behind!

I left my job as a doctor just over a year ago and my mental well-being, family time, and work life balance are so much better. Took a big pay drop but my new career has great prospects and I have no regrets.

It’s a shame that so many experienced professionals are being forced out of key roles by the conditions - not that I blame them or you. It sounds horrific!

im so glad you’re finding a better balance in life. You must feel like a new woman!

Thanks all! I hope it works out for everyone who has taken this leap!