Continue looking or sit tight for a few more years?

[Anonymous]

I have hated my job since day one but it was a safe harbor when we moved here during the economic storm of 2010. Nothing terribly wrong with it, a desirable company, but I find the work mind-numbingly boring. (I have had jobs I've loved in the past but the salary is too low here so can't afford to go back to that field).

I promised myself I'd find a new job after maternity leave in late 2012. Fast forward one year later and I'm disenchanted by the possible options.

Advantages to staying: very flexible so makes it easier to take off for drs appts,sick baby, etc; seem to be well-liked by clients and colleagues; daycare very convenient to office

Disadvantages: low salary, bored/no belief in mission of work, have already been promoted once and don't see much opportunity for future advancement. Oh yeah, did I mention I'm bored? I feel like my brain is turning to mush.

I've had a few interviews but haven't really been inspired by any of the options out there. I used to think that just getting out of my current job would be enough, but now I'm wondering if I should just suck it up, be grateful for the paycheck and mommy-track it for a few years until my LO is a little older. I kind of hate myself for considering that but I also feel like the hassle of starting over and "proving myself" at a new company may not be worth it unless its a job I really truly love or pays significantly more money.

Any thoughts/advice appreciated!

[Anonymous]

I feel you... I am somewhat in the same place, great company, flexible schedule, but I know I am worth more and could find something more challenging and with higher pay than what I am in now.

I have been doing lots of soul searching and here is my 2 cents... I think the issue is that there are so many uncertainties with a new job - you could also be mind numbingly bored but now you wont have tenure. on the other hand, you could find an amazing job that is family oriented and allows the best of both worlds. you just don't know until you start looking, but those risks will always be there.

anyway, I would say you should look around, but be very picky with where you move. only look at places you know have a good track record (maybe you know someone that works there?). even though you don't like your job, at least you have one and yes sticking with it means you have time for your family, so take advantage while you are there and if something perfect comes along, take it!

btw, that is somewhat what I have been doing. I have 2 interviews next week, both at places where I know people and I know they have a strong track record. I also have a $ in mind that will make it worthwhile to take the risk. if I don't make that $ I wont move... at least for the time being... we shall see!

[Anonymous]

I would look if I were you, but make certain before you move that you will be getting more than you have now. Nothing worse than regretting a job move. If you are in a mid-level job, you will have much competition, so there may not be a lot of opportunities. The economy still sucks for those who want to change jobs, sucks much worse for those who are unemployed and want to get back to work. Fortunately, fewer people are getting laid off, but that's small compensation to those of us who hate our jobs but can't find a better one. GL, OP.

[Anonymous]

meant to say "consolation" , not "compensation" oops. tired.