Director role opened up at my company and I would have crushed it. But it meant traveling 2 weeks a month. My kids are 4 and 7 and they need me here. I told my boss no thanks and you know what, I feel lighter. Yeah the money would have been nice but missing my sons growing up isn't worth it. Anyone else made similar calls? Curious if you guys think I'm making a mistake long term for my career.
That director role would have had you gone all the time. Your kids are only young once man. The money doesn't matter as much as being there. Respect the call.
That's the right call, man. Those years go fast and you can't get them back. I turned down some bigger opportunities early on too, and now with three kids I'm so glad I did. The promotion will still be there if you want it later.
Respect. I've got four kids bouncing off the walls at home and yeah, it's chaos but it's MY chaos. Two weeks a month gone would've killed me. You're making the right move for your family.
People always judge this move but they don't understand until they're in it. Two weeks away every month sounds fine until you realize you're missing half your kids's lives. Good on you for making the choice that actually works for your family.
Two weeks a month away is brutal. I split custody and even that schedule gets to me. You made the smart play prioritizing what actually matters.
That takes guts and honestly, respect. The travel would have been brutal on your family and yeah, the money's nice but you can't get back the time. I was offered something similar and ultimately realized my kids don't remember the promotions I didn't get but they definitely remember when I'm there.
How's your career trajectory looking though? I'm always worried that turning things down puts you in a weird position. Did your manager understand or are you kind of stuck where you are now?
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I turned down a similar thing a few years ago and honestly it was the best decision I ever made. Career moves come and go but these years with the kids? They're limited.