Should I (23F) leave a job I love for A LOT more money?

I feel sick even thinking about this situation. I know it’s an amazing problem to have, but I’m very stressed and I don’t really have anyone to talk to about it.

For some background, I worked at a restaurant through high school and college. I left after graduating college and started at a job that I love.

I make around $40k per year, but I have paid medical, dental, and vision. I’m a photographer and I split my time taking and editing photos. I work 9-5, but the schedule is flexible and I can leave early or come in late if I need to. The business I work for is small (a married couple with two other employees), so I’m actually vital to the business. They are currently working on expanding the business, which is why I got hired.

Here’s the thing: I’ve been offered $100k to manage the restaurant. As we all know, restaurant work is not flexible, especially for management. The staffing situation is a mess and the restaurant needs a lot of work. I’ve turned down managing before, but not for this much money. It is just insane and I have no idea what to do. I feel nauseous thinking about it and I need to borrow someone else’s brain.

Some insight about my current financial life: I live with my boyfriend and my half of the bills are $600/mo. I do make enough to comfortably pay all of the bills on my own, which is very important to me. I have approximately $10k in savings, two paid off cars, and I have about $120k left to pay on my home. I am comfortable with my life as is, but I will likely never make this kind of money without taking this opportunity.

Jobadvisor:

This is a big decision, and, understandably, you're feeling stressed. It's a great problem to have, but it's still a problem!

Here are some things to consider as you weigh your options:

Pros of the new job:

• Significant pay increase: This could drastically improve your financial situation and future security.
• Potential for career growth: Managing a restaurant could be a stepping stone to bigger and better opportunities.

Cons of the new job:

• Less flexibility: The 9-5 schedule and management responsibilities could limit your free time and personal life.
• Increased stress: Restaurant management can be demanding and stressful.
• Potential job insecurity: The restaurant industry can be volatile, and job security may not be as stable as your current position.

Things to consider:

• Your long-term goals: Do you want to climb the corporate ladder? Are you looking for more financial security? Or do you prioritize work-life balance and job satisfaction?
• Your values: What is important to you? Is it money, job satisfaction, or something else?
• Your mental health: Can you handle the increased stress and pressure of a management position?
• Your relationship: How will this decision impact your relationship with your boyfriend?

Ultimately, the decision is yours to make. There is no right or wrong answer. It's important to weigh the pros and cons carefully and choose the option that will make you happiest in the long run.

Here are some additional tips:

• Talk to someone you trust: A friend, family member, or therapist can provide support and advice.
• Take some time to think: Don't rush into a decision. Take a few days or even a week to think things over.
• Visualize your future: Imagine yourself in both scenarios. How do you feel? What does your life look like?
• Trust your gut: Ultimately, you know yourself best. If something feels wrong, it probably is.

I hope this helps!

What to do when you’ve lost your job?

It's normal to feel upset or shocked but try to stay calm and professional with your boss and HR even if you're angry.

First things you should do:

• Get written proof that you were let go (like a termination letter) and ask about your final paycheck and when your health insurance ends. Don't sign any papers they give you right away. Take them home to read carefully first.

• Save any work stuff you'll need for your job search like performance reviews or project examples.

Next few days:

• Figure out how much your savings can last. Make a basic budget focusing on essential stuff like rent and food.

• Clean up your online presence. Make your social media and LinkedIn look professional and make sure it's updated.

• Update your resume with your most recent job info. Don't rush sending out applications yet. Take a day or two to make your resume really good.

Looking for work:

• Make a schedule so you don't spend all day in bed. Set goals like "apply to 5 jobs today" or "update my LinkedIn."

• Tell your friends and old coworkers that you're looking for work. A lot of people find jobs through people they know.

• Don't panic and take the first job offered unless you really need the money. Try to find something that's actually a good fit.

Most importantly: Take care of yourself. Losing your job is really stressful. Make sure to exercise, eat well, and talk to your friends and family. You will get through this.

Been there and it sucks, but it does get better :)

Jobadvisor:

Here's some additional advice on what to do when you've lost your job:

1. Take a Moment to Process Your Emotions:

• It's okay to feel a range of emotions, including anger, sadness, and frustration.
• Allow yourself to process these feelings, but don't dwell on them for too long.

2. Create a Job Search Strategy:

• Identify Your Target Jobs: Research industries and companies that align with your skills and interests.
• Network: Reach out to friends, family, former colleagues, and industry professionals.
• Leverage Online Job Boards: Utilize platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, and specialized job boards.
• Prepare for Interviews: Practice common interview questions and tailor your responses to each job.

3. Take Advantage of Government Resources:

• Unemployment Benefits: Apply for unemployment benefits to provide temporary financial support.
• Career Counseling: Seek guidance from local government agencies or non-profit organizations.

4. Consider Temporary Work:

• Freelancing: Utilize your skills to earn money through freelance platforms.
• Part-Time Jobs: Take on part-time work to cover immediate expenses.

5. Upskill and Reskill:

• Online Courses: Take advantage of online courses to learn new skills or enhance existing ones.
• Certifications: Obtain certifications to boost your job market value.

6. Maintain a Positive Mindset:

• Practice Mindfulness: Engage in meditation or yoga to reduce stress.
• Stay Active: Exercise regularly to improve your physical and mental health.
• Build a Support Network: Connect with friends and family for emotional support.

Remember, losing a job is a temporary setback, not a permanent failure. With a positive attitude and a proactive approach, you can overcome this challenge and find new opportunities.