The Identity Crisis Nobody Tells You About
Got laid off after 15 years in tech sales. Spent two months actually present at home for the first time since my oldest was born. Started coaching my son's soccer team, helping my wife with the house, actually talking to my kids about their day instead of just asking how school was before checking email.
When I got a new job offer I honestly hesitated. That never would have happened before. The money's good but I hate that I'm back to being the guy who leaves before kids wake up and gets home when they're in bed. I gained actual relationships with my family but lost this thing about myself where I was "essential" and "high value" at work. Still figuring out how to be both the guy I was and the dad I want to be.
Two months of actually being there instead of running around would change anyone's perspective. Coaching your kid has to feel different now that you're really part of it.