Hi,

Hi,

I’m thinking about moving jobs from a very flexible environment to a more stringent environment. The pay in the new role is a lot better and offers opportunities to build my career.

I’m also thinking of trying for children at some point this year or next year so I’m unsure as to whether I stay at my current role purely for the flexibility, or move on and focus on improving my career prospects.

Grateful for any views!

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7 Comments

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  1. Anonymous

    Based on the post in general, I’d say to do it and go for the new opportunity. When you have children, things WILL change, your priorities will change, you will figure it out and will make it work.

    From experience, I specifically left a job after my maternity leave was up, because I had switched roles (didn’t love the new role and knew i’d lack flexibility with that boss and would have to go into an office more times than id like). Fast forward to a few months later, an old colleague reached out and I was offered a very flexible job that I am very grateful for because my kids are now around 4 and 8 and I’ve been able to enjoy so much of the early years with them. Additionally, with the rapport I’ve built at my current workplace, I’ve never felt bad or guilty about having to leave to pick up my kid or take additional time during the day to tend to my sick kids (from all bosses over the years). My youngest will be going to school next year and I plan on revisiting my career goals again to figure out what’s next for me!

  2. Anonymous

    Personally, if you enjoy the job and your current employer has demonstrated that they actually put their money where their mouths are with regards to being flexible when employees need them to be? I'd stay put. I've had friends who have been told that they will have flexibility... only to find that definitions of what 'flexibility' actually means can vary wildly.

    Parenting can be incredibly stressful on its own. Employers can throw on added stress — do you get to keep your job? are you overlooked for promotion because your family needed you to work from home more than you expected? do they think you're unreliable because they needed to send a coworker in your stead on a business trip? — and it might be more than you find worthwhile when you're really just trying to support your family during that season.

  3. Ariana Nunez

    I’d choose flexibility over stringent any day.

  4. Anonymous

    You need to figure out what's best for you and yours. It's hard for others to provide insight as we all don't have the same lives and careers. Encourage you take others opinions carefully.

  5. Anonymous

    On the surface, the "new" role seems to meet your professional goals for the future...

    However, once you have kids - Flexibility is Priceless!!

    Also - be cautious of taking maternity leave so soon after starting with the new company where you'll be the "New Kid on the Block"...

    As the saying goes, "Last one hired..."

  6. Esan F.

    In my opinion, if starting a family is an important goal you may want to consider remaining in a role that provides flexibility. A more stringent environment is likely not as conducive to the nuances of raising a child/children. Ultimately, the decision is yours. Follow your internal guidance system, list out the potential pros and cons for each scenario. If you have a partner, ask for their insight. Wishing you the best of luck with your future endeavors!

  7. Changemaker828603

    Money isn't everything. Having a good work environment is gold.

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