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Considering giving up 'career' - might regret it later?

2 replies

IceTippedMountains · 17/05/2026 00:08

Currently work in a stressful industry in the public sector- my decisions can lead to huge liability claims. Been here since I graduated nearly four years ago. Ever since my GCSEs I wanted to pursue this career but I am mentally spent, and moving to private sector (and that is if I got a job) just does not attract me either. Its not all what its cracked up to be. I just want to walk away.

  • Job uncertainity - which has spurred on this decision to leave.
  • I cant 'gel' with my fairly new manager, and he can be quite moody at times and is so introverted that there is communication break downs and I dont get the support/training.
  • No promotion prospects despite being promised by previous management.
  • Slightly bored.
  • Dont need the money as we have low living costs.
  • I want kids.

Am applying for jobs which require qualifications, however have little room for promotion and would be a pay drop. This is the stickler - I grew up on the breadline and I am scared to lower my standard of living as I might end up back to that position. I went to grammar school which 'career' days was always about university education and the subsequent high flying jobs.

The other matter that is living rent free in my head - is some extent I also feel like a failure, I have worked to this for over a decade (since school) and I just cant cut it. My single mum made a lot of sacrafices for me, and I also feel like I have let her down.

Would I regret it? I dont go to bed on a Sunday evening dreading the working week.

OP posts:
TeenLifeMum · 17/05/2026 00:14

One thing I’ll say as a 44 year old - job uncertainty is a way of life. It sucks but that’s how it is. I went through 3 consultations from 2005 before being made redundant in 2009 - private sector. I’ve been through nhs merger job at risk in 2023 - had to interview for the job I’d done for 8 years with immaculate appraisal feedback, abs were about to go through more transformation (cost saving bull shit).

Having a bad boss is an issue. My situation is better but I’m training my manager (subtly). Her insecurity is an issue - I don’t want her bloody job yet she still fears me getting any praise. It’s tedious.

what I’m saying is this is fairly normal. get a job and leave but this early in your career, just leaving feels reckless imo.

LadyLapsang · 17/05/2026 13:35

I think you would regret it. You are only 4 years post graduation and don’t have children. This is the time you need to lean in to building your career. By all means secure a new role, but don’t leave without another job. Remember you need at least 35 years NI contributions in your own right for your state pension.

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