Roberto Posted July 28, 2014 Posted July 28, 2014 I would like to take a break from work to spend time with my family. I feel that time is going too fast and that I want to spend more time with my kids. I have a 5 year old, a 3 year old and we are expecting a new baby In about a month a half. I have the means to make this happen so economically I can afford it for a year. My plan is to spend time with them, travel some, teach them some, learn some. I have a well paid job with benefits. I have 4 weeks vacation + holidays...etc, I've been working here for 14 years and I am also feeling a little burn out from the work I do and all the corporation politics. I just feel unsure and afraid because right now I have job security (perceived at least) and I dont know how difficult might be to get a job later. It seems risky to me but I think It would be something I would really enjoy and remember as a great adventure. I would like to hear your opinion on this. Thank you. 1
AMR Posted July 28, 2014 Posted July 28, 2014 Is your wife currently working? What does she think? Do you have any other means of income? Is your house paid off? Do you have any debt at all? What will you do about health insurance? What industry are you currently working in and can you continue to work on your skills while out of the work place? How long have you been thinking about doing this? What will you do when the year is up? This is a risky decision and I value time very much and understand your feelings of wanting spend more time with the people you love. If you are frugal enough to make choices that have lead you to be financially able to take a year off with three kids, I think you will make the best choice for you.
StevenShafer Posted July 28, 2014 Posted July 28, 2014 Hey Roberto, if you have the economic means, for god's sake do it, When you are on your death bed you will not miss the time you were at work, but I'm sure you will regret not spending more time with your family. Best wishes. 1
Existing Alternatives Posted July 28, 2014 Posted July 28, 2014 The biggest challenge for most parents is the finances. If you have means to do this – you owe it to your future self! For that matter, if you don’t have the means, it may be even advantageous to borrow to take the time off. It sounds like you are in a situation where this can be done with very little impact on your career. Most companies will be willing to afford you a sabbatical of sorts or a leave of absence after 14 years of service with your job waiting for you when you get back. It sounds like you are burning out and need a break anyhow. So, this will be worth it on more than one level. While you are thinking about this, it would be worth it approaching your boss or HR department and inquire about sabbatical / LOA policies. The main value, of course is your ability to play in immediate role in your kids’ foundational years. You simply can’t put a price on that. What’s your career worth 20 years down the road, if you don’t have a meaningful relationship with your kids? Best of luck!
Roberto Posted July 29, 2014 Author Posted July 29, 2014 Is your wife currently working? What does she think? Do you have any other means of income? Is your house paid off? Do you have any debt at all? What will you do about health insurance? What industry are you currently working in and can you continue to work on your skills while out of the work place? How long have you been thinking about doing this? What will you do when the year is up? This is a risky decision and I value time very much and understand your feelings of wanting spend more time with the people you love. If you are frugal enough to make choices that have lead you to be financially able to take a year off with three kids, I think you will make the best choice for you. My wife is at home taking care of our two children she used to work as a chef. She agreees on the idea a 100%. I dont have any other means of income besides savings. We have a mortgage as far as debt. I am in the refrigeration industry, yes I can still develop my skills while out of the workplace. I have been thinking about this for a couple of years but lately I have bee feeling the urge to do it. My plan is to go as long as I can and then get a part time job or a job where I can work from home. I've been looking around and there are a few companies that will hire people working at home.
AMR Posted July 29, 2014 Posted July 29, 2014 I wish you the best! I am so happy you get to do this for you and your family!
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