Career break update - 2 years in

Nov 221 min read

Posted here about 2 years ago when I left my corporate job to be more hands-on with the kids (ages were 2 and 5 at the time). Wanted to give an update.

Truthfully? It's been mixed. I don't regret the time I had with them when they were younger. But now that they're in school (both of them) I'm getting bored and honestly my self-worth took a hit. Wife's job is stable but there's real pressure there.

Just accepted a job that's 3 days a week in an office. Not my old industry but pays decent. Nervous about the transition but also excited to have something for myself again. Anyone else made a similar pivot?

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Comments(2)

CChris P.Regular1d ago

The boredom thing is real and nobody talks about it enough. When my oldest started kindergarten I had this weird identity crisis—like, who am I if I'm not actively parenting 24/7? Ended up doing freelance work from home which gave me just enough structure and mental stimulation without the full-time grind. 3 days a week sounds like a sweet spot honestly. How are you planning to handle the school pickup situation? That's where I always get tangled up.

RRandy S.Regular1d ago

Good for you honestly. I see a lot of posts here from guys who either commit 100% to work or go all-in on being the primary parent like it's a binary choice, but real life is messier than that. The fact that you're excited AND nervous seems healthy. One thing I'd say: those first few weeks back in an office environment after 2 years will feel weird (the small talk, the meetings, all of it), but it passes fast. Which industry are you pivoting to, or keeping that private?