Career change after kids - is it realistic or am I crazy?

Jan 141 min read

Currently in software engineering (good money, flexible employer, burnout is real). Been thinking about transitioning to something lower-stress like teaching or government work. Would be pay cut of like 40%, but would probably have actual boundaries.

Kids are 6, 4, and 1. Wife works too but wants me to stay in tech for "financial stability." Am I being selfish thinking about what I want versus what secures the family? Or is staying sane a form of financial stability too? Legit asking for perspective here.

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Comments(5)

MMarcusRegularJan 14

The flexible employer thing is a huge advantage. Have you talked to them about shifting roles or going part-time first? Might give you a transition path instead of a full jump.

RRussell D.RegularJan 14

What would you actually want to do instead? That's the real question. Because a career change with kids is possible but you need to know what you're moving toward, not just what you're running from.

MMasonNew DadJan 16

Not crazy at all. Software burnout is real and it catches up with you. That said, don't make this move just because you're burned out right now. Take a month and see if some breathing room helps first.

PPat H.RegularJan 15

You're not crazy but make sure your wife is on board with the financial implications. That conversation happens before you start updating your LinkedIn.

SSteve M.RegularJan 17

I did something similar at 35 with two kids. Income did take a temporary hit but quality of life improved. Just be brutally honest about your financial runway before you make the jump.

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