Is it bad not to apply for promotion?

[SilverGlitterBaubles]

So a promotion has come up which I am expected to apply for as it would be a natural progression. My gut feeling is that it would be a step too far especially in an organisation where the sand keeps shifting and I would be overwhelmed and miserable. Would I be written off if I am not seen to be keen to step up?

Sit down and have a chat with your manager about this. Would you apply if it came up again in a year's time? Maybe tell him you want a bit more experience in your current role but would apply this time next year if the opportunity arose.

I recently turned down a promotion as I didn't want the stress or responsibility. Difference is I'm not fussed about progressing more as I'm looking to retire in about 10 years. But tbh it's not impacted my career and I still get really good reviews and pay increases as a result. Not everyone wants to continue up the corporate ladder, and every company needs people who are good at their job that don't want to become a manager or the next CEO

That probably depends on your organisation's culture. Is it an "up or out" kind of place?

What do you mean by "written off"? Managed out or just not offered future opportunities?

@wildwestpioneer That is exactly how I feel. I am at my limit in terms of work life balance, trying to manage menopause symptoms, teenagers and aging parents.

@user1846385927482658 I think perhaps not being offered future opportunities or as a woman of a certain age just irrelevant and invisible really I suppose.

Yes this is me completely. I have a good work / life balance, like the company I work for, my colleagues and I get paid well. I’ve no interest in my 50s of working my way up the ladder, I’m quite happy doing a good days work and enjoying my weekends

The fact that we ask ourselves these questions ( and I completely include myself in the "we") just shows how fucked up our culture is.
There is absolutely nothing wrong with being ambitious and wanting to progress in work - indeed, we need people like this!
But we shouldn't find ourselves feeling guilty or inadequate for being content in our role.
There is a lot to be said for enjoying life, we only get one.
OP, it sounds like you want to give priority to your well-being, your children, and your elderly relatives.
We need people like you too!

Apologies, just read your post again, sounds like you have not made your final decision yet.
I think PP was spot on when they suggested having a chat with your manager or send an email to explain that now may not be the time, but that you would consider this in the future.

@BrexitShmeckzit Both of your posts are very accurate. I feel that I give a a lot of myself already and have always gone above and beyond but some organisations always want more.