Career advancement vs being present - having an existential crisis | DadHQ

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Career advancement vs being present - having an existential crisis

MarkNew Dad

2w ago·1 min read

Got offered a promotion that would mean travel 2-3 days a week and longer hours. The money would help a lot but my kids are 7, 5, and 3. My oldest said the other day he wants to play more with me and it crushed me. Wife says it's my call but I know she's worried. This is supposed to be the decade I climb the ladder but it's also the most important time with the kids. Anyone gone through this? Did you take the promotion or pass? What do you regret?

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Comments(3)

VVincentRegular2w ago

I turned down a similar offer two years ago and honestly it's the decision I don't regret. The money looked amazing but missing bedtimes and weekend games adds up fast. Your kids won't remember the extra salary, they'll remember if you were there.

DDavidNew Dad2w ago

This hits different when you've got three of them like I do. The promotion I took last year meant I was gone Mon-Thurs most weeks. My oldest stopped asking me about his school day because he knew I wouldn't be home. Had to make a hard choice and negotiate it down to one week a month travel. Talk to them about flexibility before you accept.

NNate B.Regular2w ago

The money helps but only if you're actually there to spend it with them. I've seen too many guys grind for that title and realize their kids grew up without them. What's the opportunity cost to your family situation?