Turned down a promotion for my family

2w ago·1 min read

Had a chance to move up last month but it would've meant traveling like 40% of the time. My kids are still young and I didn't want to miss their childhood for more money. Wife was shocked I said no but this felt right. Already feeling some regret about the money and what it could have meant for our future but when I read bedtime stories I remember why I did it. Anyone else made this call? Worth it or will I regret it?

6 comments188 views

Comments(6)

MMatt D.Regular2w ago

That's a tough call but you made the right one. I turned down extra shifts at work for the same reason - those years go fast and you can't get them back. Your kids will remember you being there.

SSteve Q.Regular2w ago

Man, I respect that decision. The promotion will still be there later, but your kids are only young once. Sports schedules and school stuff are packed enough without adding 40% travel on top of it.

KKyleNew Dad2w ago

Respect. I had a similar decision point a few years back and took the promotion anyway. Regretted it pretty quick. How did your company take it?

VVincentRegular2w ago

Real talk, that's not turning it down, that's choosing what actually matters. 40% travel with young kids is basically being a part-time dad and a full-time workaholic. Your kids will remember that you picked them.

PPhilRegular2w ago

That's the move right there. The promotion will come around again if it's meant to. Your kids being young is a limited window. You made the right call.

AAdam K.New Dad2w ago

I'm still in the early stages but this is exactly the kind of decision I want to be able to make when the time comes. How did you know it was the right choice?