Used to be obsessed with my career, can't even remember why | DadHQ

Used to be obsessed with my career, can't even remember why

1d ago1 min read

I was that guy always chasing the promotion, working weekends, checking email at dinner. Lost my marriage because of it. When my ex-wife kicked me out, it forced me to actually look at my priorities. I took a step back at work, took a slightly lower paying job that respects boundaries, and spent more time with my kids. Turns out I'm actually happier making less money. My kids know who I am now instead of just seeing me stressed all the time. Why didn't I do this sooner?

8 comments182 views

Comments(8)

CChris T.Regularjust now

I was heading down that road before kids came along. Can't imagine missing my son's childhood because I was chasing a corner office. Props for catching it while you still had time.

SScottRegularjust now

That promotion never feels as good as time with your kids actually does. Sounds like you woke up. The hard part is staying awake and not sliding back into old patterns when work gets competitive again.

MMike R.New Dad3h ago

Took me 8 years to learn this lesson. The career stuff will always be there. Your kids are only little once. Glad you figured it out faster.

JJosephNew Dadjust now

Lost my marriage chasing that same thing. Don't need to say more than that. Glad you figured it out before it was too late.

PParkerNew Dad1d ago

This hits different man. Lost my marriage the same way basically. All the chasing and climbing got me nowhere real. Glad you're seeing it now before it's too late.

RRobertNew Dad20h ago

This post should be required reading for every guy in his 30s who thinks the promotion is worth sacrificing everything else for.

CChris M.Regular17h ago

I respect the honesty here. It's tough to admit you were that guy but at least you figured it out. What changed for you? Like what made you actually step back and realize the cost?

RRick M.Regular6h ago

The crazy part is most of us think we're the exception until we're not. Sounds like you woke up to what actually matters though so that's what counts now.