More money or job satisfaction?

[Sonnald]

Hi everyone

Just wanted to get your views on something. Currently working as a scaffolder but have finally realised after all this time that it's just not for me. Yes, there are good days, but the nature of the workand the people that are inherent in the industry just don't seem to resonate with me.

So in considering other options, I started to think about becoming a postman. Much more aligned with who I am as a person, but less money for sure. I'm pretty sure I would be fine with the pay cut though as I don't tend to spend much anyway.

It's just that my current job is becoming very draining. I find myself dragging myself through the day sometimes. Of course there are good days and bad days in all work, but when the majority are bad, surely it's time to go? I think the only thing keeping me there (apart from the money) is the fact that I can have time off pretty much whenever I like. Although would it not be better to do something I enjoy and don't want to run away from as opposed to something that I'm always looking to spend more time away from?

Sorry for the lengthy post! Just wanted to get a heads up on what you all thought. I'm in a real pickle about it all!

All the best,

Sonnald

[one_step_closer]

I think you've made some very good points about what matters to you. I think that job satisfaction is really important and if you think you'll manage the reduction in pay then maybe you should go for it!

[Freedom Fighter]

Job satisfaction. The amount of money needed to make up for a **** job that you hate is super high.

[bitomato]

Maybe you already use "swing staging" but I can only imagine that your job is very labor intensive anyway. Could you expand on what about the fact that the:
"nature of the work and the people that are inherent in the industry just don't seem to resonate with me"?

If that is the case, visiting a vocational or career counselor may be useful between quitting and settling for less pay without some research. Maybe they could direct you to a job that would be as rewarding to you as being a post man but not such of a cut in pay. Job security, benefits, retirement, less risk however may also be what is alluring to the life of a postman. Maybe see if a postman in your area could get permission for you to do a walk along and see if you like the delivery aspect.

I would suggest that you get a physical done, and also be screened for depression. You are totally on track that wanting to run away from a job is never something to ignore. However, managing "free" time may also be challenging and you might find enjoyment in being a volunteer or working with organizations like habitat for humanity etc.

Please keep us updated.

[Tautology]

If you can meet your financial needs with the new job, and the old job is a serious no-go for your mental health, switch.

There's a spectrum of what people need from a job. Some people are fine working a job they hate as long as it pays well, and live for the weekend/toys. On the other end there's people who need a very fulfilling job even if it means living a frugal life.

Figuring out where you fall on that line and making the most of it is something that isn't talked about. As long as you realize that all jobs have their downside, and the grass isn't always that much greener on the other side, go for it and switch.

[Knee-Socks]

I vote Job satisfaction just as long as you can still pay your bills. So if the pay cut isn't huge and you can still manage, I say go for it. You aren't happy where you are right now and that will eventually just be to much stress and money isn't worth it.

[yoyogirl]

I find that a job has to be something that is semi stressful but not too taxing mentally or physically on me. But also very interesting and varied, if it gets to stage where I am bored or dreading it. Then I am not exactly in a place where I look forward to it and I end up looking for other jobs elsewhere or staying just for money and something to do. But don't quit unless I know I have job to go to as that's just pointless. Unless of course it's really impacting on my health then. I either look for alternative days, change hours, move around in the role or strictly focus on other things beside work on my mind.

[Entropy]

For me I think job satisfaction is more important than money as long as I am making enough money to live comfortably if that makes sense?