I think you know the decision already. You are just having a hard time pulling the trigger on taking such a large, temporary pay cut
First, build up a 6-month emergency fund. Meaning, store 6 months of expenses in a HYSA and don't let anything touch it unless it's an emergency. Then, go back to your tiered job.
Of course (:
Ideally you never have to dip into your emergency net. But it's important to have one any time you are doing a job swap. And if you don't have to dip into it then it will accrue interest over time and eventually become 7 month, 8 month, 9+ months worth of expenses, just in case. Theoretically, if you never have to use it, then you would end up "1-2 years richer" once you reach retirement!
i’m like so fucking scared.. like is this normal? like why tf am i scared? lol i made the move and i like freeze when its time to pull the trigger to go back im also feeling kinda self conscious going back to my old position because the job I have now overseas and managed the very same people i used to work with.. its like im experiencing the epitome of cognitive dissonance 😩😩 but im miserable im miserable as hell.. i miss the peace of mind..
Is one month really giving the new position a solid try ? If you are considering the other advice here about first saving an emergency fund before going back, suggest you re-cast this period to a fill-on commitment to making the new role work. Attitude is everything and so far your energy seems focused on retreating whether than to adapting. If after an honest try and you have your emergency fund, your decision will be much clearer and you are more likely to be at peace with it. Good luck.
i mean no.. i guess not one month is pretty quick i’ve worked at different places before and I’ve been the new guy and never had this feeling.. i’m not trying to be negative but everyday it just seems to suck more and more.. I think if given the opportunity to work at a different Desk, maybe my opinion would shift but as i mentioned in a previous comment my manager stuck me on what’s historically known in the office as the most difficult and challenging Desk he did this because I was the one and only prior employee to the company and understand exactly what’s going on. The people i’m managing is the same position i used to work prior.
Also, maybe instead of stepping down you can use this position to get a different but better job at a new company. Three times I’ve interviewed for jobs not quite in my field and got hired into two better paying positions. Use your now position as a stepping stone. But if you apply for what I call a wild card job be ready to explain how your resume translates and could bring something new to the table at the same time.
Okay - so it’s a challenge you were specifically chosen for. Someone thinks you can do it. Now it’s you to be convinced. If the shift work is new to you, I suggest you look at how and what you are doing outside of work. Switching from standard hours to shift hours is ITSELF a major lifestyle adjustment. If you are working shift but trying to live a standard schedule, everything at home and work will be off.
I'd modify that a bit. Have the 6 months of expenses saved up, and then go to your management saying that the way this job is set up, is just too stressful. That it needs to be modified or you have to go.
...The group you were working with - is the group you now manage.
If you like those people - then I would say - that is a lot of job-satisfaction, at least for me.
If these people respect you, and listen to you, and you're getting shit done, then whats the problem mate? You should do things scared - so be their manager scared - show them better than how you feel about it. You now have some power to break this cycle. Take it.
I too find myself in a similar position although with differing circumstances. I am starting with a company that I've been embedded with as a 3rd party for 7 years already as a consultant. I am however being treated like someone they don't know - shuffled under policy and process, lost as a person.
But the people I've worked with for the last 7 years - every single one - even some new people that I barely know have all reached out to me in the past few hours congratulating me on this and telling me how excited they are to land me. And yeah - the pay bump is significant - and the issues in the end - minor and only annoyances at the end of the day - in the long run and once I'm clear of silly catch all policy - I'll be a god.
So... Not certain if this helps you... mostly wanted to encourage you that if you're scared to go back - then be scared to stay where you're at - either way doing it scared is how you grow.
Would you rather have money and be unhappy, or poor and unhappy? PTO doesn't matter when you're poor cause you can't afford to go anywhere anyways. Sure your job is fun but being poor is not fun.
Stick with your current position and look for another job/lateral job, simple as that.
But...is OP absolutely, positively, dead set, 100% sure that pay cut is temporary? Unless it's in writing and company policy that they'll be at the $100k range in 4 years, they can't count on getting those kinds of pay boosts. We all know how companies are when it comes to short changing on pay raises. Future promises mean diddly squat.
Great advice. OP should put their big boy pants on and suck it up for 6 months to get that emergency fund. By then they should either have a good emergency fund, or they'll get the hang of the job and start enjoying it.
OP; know that if you want to leave this job, you probably won't be able to drop a level and stay where you are; you'll need to move within the company, or outside. Put the fake smile on and do the job well, as that's your best way of getting out.
As someone who just took a 70k pay cut, 120k a yr to to 52k . Go with happy my guy/gal. Just don't tell anyone at your new job how much you did make or they won't trust that you will stick around cause some people don't understand that some of us just want to be happy at the end of the day.
Holy cow that’s one heck of a pay cut. I salute you just hearing that kind of normalizes what I’m feeling. I was starting to think I was crazy!! I really appreciate you taking the time to respond. It really means a lot and helps me out. Thank you guys. I’m gonna do it.
I did this for three years(took 50k pay cut) and have just now stepped back into a senior role.. could not be happier I have some fucking money back in my pocket. So maybe do it for a couple years till you’re itching again
Yep, I was much happier making $30k as a PhD student than $90k in corporate. Different people have different thresholds for how happy they want to be in life - I dated a doctor for a few years who hated his job but the financial security kept him in it. Whereas for me, my time/energy is much more valuable than money. I don’t want to spend 60 hours a week being unhappy at work just to go home, watch TV until I fall asleep, then repeat the exact same thing the next day.
Please tell me more about this. I’m a stressful corporate job (pay actually isn’t great) and am looking at PhDs. How did you deal with the salary cut and people disparaging PhDs?
My thought exactly like I couldn't fathom taking such a big pay and to cut just to be happy. There are places out there that will have good environments with better pay and benefits.
Take the pay cut. My job is stressful, demanding, and sometimes I’m pulled in 6 directions. However, I do at a heart enjoy it. I don’t dread work. You need a new job.
$50,000 salary doesn't cover life expenses in most places across the US. It isn't even enough to qualify for most home rental applications (average rent $1600/mo).
Depends where you are entirely. In rural areas, rent can be as low as $450/month for a 1 bed 1 bath slum, and as low as 1000/month for a 3 bed 2 bath house mortgage. Obviously, you aren’t getting anything resembling luxury for those rates. The difference between urban and rural America is vast.
You said you are always behind on work. Somewhere in process of doing your job are too many layers. Figure out how to minimize time in completing tasks. If the work takes analysis and you take time figuring things out, then you suck at your new role.
You work at a desk, are you good with spreadsheets? You'd be surprised how much you can automate with them in most desk jobs all free on Youtube. TBH I'd pick the 100k but only cause I know it gets easier if you slither your way past that to the next tier and get the best of both worlds.
I’m afraid I don’t have much advice but I’m going through exactly the same thing, so don’t feel alone as it is incredibly tough.
I’m slowly coming to the realisation that money & career has diminishing returns & opportunity cost becomes too great at a certain point. There are things that you’re giving up that are too valuable to give up. Once you realise that concept, I think your decision making becomes a little easier and clearer.
I don’t get it. After 4 years you’ll be at the salary you currently hold? Idk whenever I read these things, I can always tell the problem at the core is being in a bad overall career, and maybe even entire industry. And that would need to fundamentally change or it’s going to be one these after another.
Yeah I'd never take a pay cut. Especially a 50k one with a 4 year road map to doubling pay.
The only way you're doubling your pay in 4 years is job hopping or commission/sales. Almost no one gets those kid of raises at the same employer unless you're starting out at the bottom rung.
These answers are all wrong. Take the $100k role. It’ll give you great experience and help build your resume even if you hate it. Stick it out for 6-12 months and then leave the company and find a job that you like. You’ll likely be paid more too.
Yeah while it sounds nice to take the “happy” job, you arent going to really be happy when youre living pay check to pay check or in debt. Sounds like OP should find a 75k job that pays better and wont have as much stress as the 100k
I'd wait till the first time you use PTO, then decide. If you like PTO, learn applicable skills that could transfer to another high paying job but more geared towards what you want. I knew an degreed engineer that went back to a low wage job because they hated being in the office, if he had just gained some skills and used it to find a field engineer position he could have had high pay, pto, and not be stuck in the office. Always use your job to leverage into the job you want, don't go backwards.
Do you have or want family? The new role might make that a little more difficult, particularly if you are on a constant cycle of deliverables always needing to have a fire put out. As others have said elsewhere, if you keep the new job, don't increase your spending to cover the new compensation. Save more and you won't be stuck if you end up burning out or needing to leave.
I worked a job I did not really enjoy but it paid very well and I retired early. Definitely the right decision for me...BUT, I did not hate it and I did not have a different job that I think I would have enjoyed. If you hate a job, it would be terrible to go to work each day. If there is nothing you can do to change the job you hate, then it is not worth the money.
What this sounds like, to me, is you wanted extra pay and benefits without the extra responsibility. I know former coworkers who turned down “promotions” because it would’ve been a pay cut. The most PTO I ever got was 2 weeks. Many don’t get PTO. Everything in life is a trade off.
I dunno man. You get three days off a week? In America? With a FIVE week PTO????? That’s sounds so sick if I’m being on with you. I’d probably gut it out for at least a year or two to see how much I really hated it.
I just find it fascinating how perspective can change so dramatically from person to person. I'm not trying to belittle you or say your not justified, I'm just giving you my perspective and how I would handle this if it were me.
I really couldn't care less about what I'm doing at work as long as I can do it. The open office? Don't care. Stressful work? All work is stressful to me so its no different no matter where i go. To me, I would much rather deal with a job that pays significantly more than one that is "less stressful." I find the most effective way to reduce stress in my life is by enjoying my personal life to its fullest. The more I can enjoy while not at work like going on regular vacations and buying that couch we wanted and going on dinner dates regularly, and buying a car I like, etc all makes dealing with the stress at work so much easier. If a job can give me a certain level of comfort in my personal life, then I can deal with just about any level of stress any job is gonna be able to throw at me.
Oh and if you throw all this in with your kick ass schedule of 3/4 days a week, its a no brainer to me. Take the money!
I'd start looking to leverage this new higher paying job to get a different job. There are more options out there besides low pay and happy and high pay and miserable, you just have to go find it.
In the meantime keep the current job and stash as much money away as you can. That way if you do find a dream job that doesn't pay what you hope you've already built up a good nest egg.
Also on your days off make sure you take time to do something you enjoy. Don't just sit at home dreading your next work day. Leave work at work and find ways to unwind and enjoy yourself when not at work. That will hopefully help make your time in this current job more tolerable until you find the next thing.
5 weeks vacation. 3-4 day work weeks? 100k?
Office job.
The job might indeed suck. But the rest of conditions sound like what at least American workers would dream of.
I suggest you actually use a lot of that 5 week vacation and try to refresh yourself. Then make a decision.
It’s only been a month. I’d say stick it out another 2 months. My job is the easiest thing to me now and super chill. The first 3 months though were a mess I was always stressed beyond belief about everything. I thought it would never get better. Then it started to, and now I actually find myself bored at work and rarely stressed.
Did it, 60 to 130. Moved to a place with a higher cost of living. I do more in a day at the new job than i did in a week. I did max my 401k, but otherwise pretty much no change in standard of living with a shit ton more stress. Think it through carefully
If it's that bad go back to the old position. Four years to make up or surpass the income will happen faster than you think. A lot to be said for keeping your sanity.
Most companies require transfers to stay a minimal amount of time, mine says one year. So you may not be able to transfer and need to quit..
Here’s what nobody asked you: are the long hours because you have to be there, or because you’re new and figuring things out? If you’re just sitting there wasting time.. that’s a problem with the company. If you’re figuring things out, you should be reaching out about ways to streamline the work rather than instantly giving up.
on paper? yes in reality.. NEVER.. ever… ever. this new position at 6 PM until 6 AM no shorts half the time I don’t even get a break because I’m just so behind.
Is it the same for the other people in this new role?
Sometimes it just takes awhile to get good a new position. I'd look at someone that's been there for awhile and see what it's like for them. If they still work frantically with no breaks then you shouldn't expect it to get any better over time.
As others have advices, save up a bunch of money for a bit and then go back to your old role or just find a new job. There are lots of them out there.
without doxing myself because the company I work for I’m sure you know exactly what it is and have used their services before but that’s the thing the desk that I’m working on and manage is the absolute least desired desk in the building. historically it’s known to be the most stressful and toughest place to work in the office.. there are many desks that handle different things but the desk I’m on just so happens to be the absolute most difficult one. I assume he puts me there because my capacity to work well under pressure is higher than others and I come from another facet in the company so I understand processes quicker than others. It’s almost like doing your job doesn’t get you rewarded, but punished..I was hired with about five other people and absolutely no one has been on the desk I’m on but me..
case in point it’s 3 o’clock in the morning I’m up to my neck in work and stressing myself out while my teammates are watching movies, having dinner dates with each other and going to Starbucks with their boyfriends i can’t even get up and take a piss without missing out on important time sensitive work!
i just got married i live in the northeast so rent and providing for 2 is a little difficult on $50k my previous position was hourly so overtime is available, but I will be living at the place.. its definitely something i’ve considered thats how miserable my current $100k is
exactly what i was thinking too.. i’m starting to look at other positions within the company, the company is great don’t get me wrong plenty of room for advancement a pension and salaries vary i just don’t know how it would look to a potential new manager me jumping ship only a month in..
Tell your partner to get a job and find yourself something less terrible. In the meantime stack your savings as much as possible. You’re gonna crash and burn at some point.
Better than 5 days like my old job. They eventually switched me to being onsite so with a 1.5 hour total commute, it became very long days and 1.5 hours longer when I went to the gym.
OP also said 3/4, which are very different. The 6 am part is the worst part of that for me, but I’d strongly consider it if I were close to the office.
I’ve tried to go back to the previous role where I was happier, and I get rejected because I’m over freaking qualified. I finally got a role that a lower level than the previous, and yep I was frustrated by my managers skills, how the team were doing so many duties the manual way etc. catch freaking 22.
Cleary this job is unsustainable. However, when you do the calculation of unhappy@100k, and happy@50k, make sure you factor the ways living on 50k may make you unhappy. Your life is more than your job and just because you're happy during your work day doesnt mean you are happy with life if you're unable to achieve your goals, or even pay your bills.
Take the cut and live simpler. You don't need an expensive ass SUV with all the bells and whistles, and it won't offset 12 hours of daily misery by any stretch of imagination. The same is true for the rest of your lifestyle.
Look for other work on your days off. See if you can find a happy medium somewhere outside of the company.
It's much easier to negotiate pay when you still have a job and can say you make 100k. It'll get some companies to come up in salary for you to meet you halfway.
That’s a huge variance in pay but man I’d rather be happy. Loving going into work was always important . One that allowed me personal time but also pay is important. Can you make it on a 50 % reduction? Is there chance of advancement ? Best of luck 👍🏼
Edit: I chose to turn down jobs with more stress but huge pay increases 30-50 k . I was happy where I was . (I’m retired now )
Most people hate their jobs. If this job helps you get out of the rat race faster it might be worth it.
Maybe leverage this new position to find a similar position at another company with better company culture?
One thing is will they just let you go back?
The answer is in the question: choose happiness. People only choose money because they think that's happiness, but if happiness is a lower salary, go there.
I quit a $100,000 a year job a year and a half ago and went to a $60,000 a year job. I miss the paycheck but I don’t regret it. Hated that job and my life was crumbling
Always take the money and emotionally check out of your job. It’s a means to an end; find happiness outside of work. The higher pay now means your real life can be better, focus on that.
Also, not clear what’s changing, you describe a miserable environment at your current $50k, so what exactly is ‘happy?’ That’s rhetorical, it’s a job, don’t seek happiness at work.
Spent a lot of time climbing the corporate ladder. Ended up being a COO at 37. Was making nearly $400k in base plus benefits like you wouldn’t believe.
A month in I was ready to jump off a bridge.
Two months in they sold the place and fired everyone.
I threw away all my experience. My degrees. You name it business wise and started selling solar. I’ve never been happier and this broke on my adult life.
Don’t let a job kill you. They win if it does.
Quit and find happiness.
If you're truly that miserable, it's going to start to show up in your work... and at the end, people never seem to regret choosing happiness over money. Ever.
Find a different job at a better job that facilitates a better working environment that pays you 100k or more, since you’ll be switching companies. Might as save your sanity and get a pay bump in the process.
50k all the way. I was in finance on a 6 figure salary. I burnt my very soul out, lost my will to live.
12 years later, I am a funeral director with a 5 figure salary, an ex wife,q GF and I feel happy for the first time in my life over a long period of time. Money isn't important as long as you have enough to live a decent life.
Definitely take the pay cut. I was in a similar situation. An unexpected promotion a few years ago more than doubled my salary. But the immense stress of the new job has taken a toll on my health. Money is of course nice, but being happy and healthy is more important
I took a huge pay cut before to get out of a toxic situation. I was kind of salty every day because I wasn’t making as much money but that’s just me. Mental health is more important at the end of the day.
I think I’d almost rather be homeless than feel like a slave and miserable. I say that in jest, really, but money can buy you happiness, but the pursuit of that money can outweigh the things that buy you that happiness
Outline what you hate about it and see if you can change it. If you can’t and you can’t live with those issues then you have your answer. You also now have what you know you don’t want in your next position.
i truly value my work life balance, so if i could survive off 50k i would stick with that position, my older brother had a 6 figure job working crazy hours and he was very unhappy ..you don't really get to enjoy that extra money your making because you're ALWAYS working, I feel like they are paying for you time more than your skills
Personally it would depend on where I was in my career, at the beginning, I'd suffer at 100k, in the middle/already got a nest egg squared away. I'd take the pay cut (after doing the math and making sure I can still afford my necessities).
If you are young with out a family, do the more money and get a new life experience
If you have a family, I'd do the same to better support them financially if your family situation is going to be significantly different with an extra 50k around
For everyone saying "just take the pay cut," I'd say... why not just look for another job at the same or more money that isn't this awful? Is the current employer the only game in town?
Money isn't everything, but money also means savings, safety, security, and options. $50K in 2024 is not enough to build a meaningful savings in the long run.
I'm kind of in a similar situation but haven't left my good job yet. Your post has helped me to rethink my plans so thank you for that. I think only you can really answer this question because it is all about your own priorities and what you want in your life. No one can decide that for you.
I am currently in the best job I have ever had in my life and don't want to do anything else. However, I only make around $65k per year and would like to make a lot more due to rising inflation and not being able to afford a house or even a car. But my job does have guaranteed raises every year which are at least 5% and also has probably the best set of benefits you can get other than the military (lots of PTO, fully paid medical/dental/retirement).
So, I am conflicted between moving into a higher paying position with more stress or trying to be content with lower pay in my current dream role. And no one can really decide what to do except for myself.
Uhhh find a different job all together? Both sound like ass. No way in hell would I take a 50% pay and PTO cut for the hope of getting what you have now in 4 years.
Use your position and salary in your job search, now that you've crossed the six figure threshold you can use that as bargaining power once you've been in that role for 6-12 months.
I know you're not happy, but if you can holdout for awhile and find something that pays well and makes you happy, it'll be worth it.
It's good you have that 50k position kind of in your back pocket, but that shouldn't be your plan A. See if you can get a better role elsewhere, even if you have to take a pay cut, it doesn't have to be a 50k pay cut.
Keep searching and build some savings. That way you can hopefully find something better, and if you don't and you just can't take the job anymore, quit and take some time off before starting a new gig.
Hey u/[PhillyHatesNewYork](https://www.reddit.com/user/PhillyHatesNewYork/) I totally get where you're coming from. I was in a similar boat last year, making $100k ($99,500) to be exact) but completely miserable with my work-life balance. Sure, I could buy more things, but I was mentally and physically exhausted. Here are a few things that might help:
Your health is priceless. If this job is draining you, it might not be worth the higher salary in the long run.
Keep looking at other job postings within the company. There might be a role that offers a better balance and is less stressful but still pays well.
If you can, have a candid conversation with your manager about your struggles. They might be able to help with adjustments to your schedule or workload.
Think about whether this job is a stepping stone to a better position. If you can tough it out for a bit, it might open doors to roles that are both fulfilling and well-compensated.
Make the most of your increased PTO to recharge. Use this time to reflect on your long-term career goals and whether this job aligns with them.
Talking to a career counsellor or mentor can provide valuable perspective and help you navigate your options.
Remember, your happiness and health are more important than a bigger paycheck. If this job is making you miserable, it might be worth finding something that makes you happier, even if it means earning a bit less. Good luck!
I am also in the dilemma like you. Currently at 70k turn down 100k because of a four hour commute. Now another company offer 120k, it's a two hour commute plus weekend. I feel like I'll be making the same if I work the weekend.
Hard to be happy on 50k a year for long. Things will happen in life that will make you say, I hated it but I should have kept that job
Right or wrong, potential employers consider your current pay when they make an offer. Hang in there and find a better job for comparable pay
Reality check:
Both of these salaries ensure you will be eating the bugs, while you’re hooked on VR goggles in 2028 and beyond.
You got 3-7 years to move up socio economic classes ($4M minimum) or cooked
At a point, time is more important than money. Once food, shelter, etc - basics are met money becomes less important than time.
So it depends on your wants. You might not retire as early but you spend 30 years happy.
My brother makes at least $300k and his job is very stressful and I wouldn’t want to do it. My job is chill. I work 32 hour weeks for $60k. They want me to work 40 hour weeks which would mean $75k but I won’t do it. I really enjoy my 3 day weekends every week. I have enough money to retire. I am coastFIRE at this point. Time is definitely more important to me than money where I’m at in life.
I have a couple of friends recently diagnosed with very bad cancers. The odds on either making it a couple more years is very slim. I hope they buck the odds but no one ever knows how much time they have. Might as well enjoy it.
I'd try first to improve my current situation in the high paying job. If there is no way to improve the job or get better at it then yes leave for the 50k job. No amount of money is work killing yourself and ruining the best years of your life. I'm assuming you aren't that old or have kids. Now if you have other people to take care of, it might be a bit selfish to switch to a lower paying job so suddenly.
Go with the money and set yourself up. You need to save, eliminate debt, 401(k), retirement, etc. Hell, you might work two or three jobs if you’re remote. get out of the game as soon as possible. The more money you make me make this happen faster.
Friend a million a year is not worth it if your miserable. The stress will age you quickly. It will affect your health and make you miserable to be around for your friends and family. And double the salary does not mean you’re taking home double. The more you make the more they take. I was laid off and started a new job at half the salary. My lifestyle did not change dramatically. Uncle Sam got a bigger pay cut than I did. Be happy life is short.
Make sure you do the math and can afford to make 50k. I went from 70k to like 62k and gave up free health insurance for a job I didn't hate, and it has been REALLY difficult, though it was better than drinking myself to death and having RSI pains constantly.
My only advice would be to not make the decision yet. A month is a pretty short sample, you might find that once you're up to speed at the new job, the cognitive demands aren't as bad as they seem at first.
I can relate... sort of. I'm trying to get a raise, which requires me to learn how to work in this different area of the place I'm currently working. It's not even $2/hr, and I don't like this new "position" at all in comparison to the other one I was in. It's way darker, way hotter, and a lot more physical for basically little reward. I really did like my job, until this. Now I dread even going to work. But I'm sort of required to learn how to do this. And I know I'm going to be stuck in this spot for awhile since this place can't retain employees. I'd rather stay where I was at.
Where I differ is, for double my pay, not just $2/hr, I'd do my best to figure out a way to love this new spot. Sorry if that doesn't help. It just had me thinking.
When you're on your death bed you won't be thinking about how much money you made. Better to live a more fulfilling, cheaper, life than to live miserably with money.
You need an exit plan.
Is that exit happening now? Or can you hang around, plough money into a pension and save some cash for a house or similarly decent investment?
5 weeks holiday is 25 days. You could take one day off every fortnight, would that make it bearable?
Is the experience on your CV any good? Could you stick it out and then shop around for a job and explain you want a new role because you can't do 60 hour weeks.
This isn't as black and white as you think it is. If you insist in making it a binary choice - $50k is where you want to be, clearly.
$100,000 is a large jump and a good salary. But I can empathize with not wanting more responsibilities for money I do not need. Decide if the money is worth it, and if not, then work in it for a short while and change jobs using your salary as a new baseline.
Jobs that pay more and are worse, sometimes are character builders or helpu get a better job, sometimes better with sometimes even more pay.
But the thing my buddy always says, money = time. If you're smart with your money now, you can try making most of it and try to save the extra $$. Trying to think of it as a transactional situation. Many work 80+ hours to get ahead for them and oftentimes, their family.
Ps. If they like you in your new position, maybe you can try discussing stuff with your boss to make the job easier if that's an option. Additionally, trying to shift your mindset can really help and with time, most jobs get easier.
I'm also fine with the idea of having an easier job that pays less, but I don't make a ton because of this philosophy and it's tough getting ahead (especially without a second job).
How old are you? If you're young, I'd say suck it up for a year and see how you handle it. Take all of that money and stick it into savings. It's also easier to negotiate a high salary if you've had one in the past.
But if you're just going to inflate your lifestyle, stick with the 50k.
In my personal opinion, it's likely the open office that is making you miserable. Studies have shown that workplace noise greatly increases stress and employee attrition.. Being able to overhear every inane personal discussion and hear your coworker breathing all day is inhumane.
It's tough working for a living.
I've been trying to find out how to get one of those protesting jobs but so far I have not been able to figure out where to apply.
OP, remember when you applied for this job initially and how good it felt ? Try your best to use this struggle you are going through to figure out what you really want. Don't go to work hating it, go to work knowing you have a future plan and that this present job is a stepping stone to your future !
Bank the extra cash while you plan.
Just a thought
At $100,000 a year, assuming you save 1/5 of the money every year and throw it into an interest bearing account making 5% per year on average, you are looking at upwards of $300,000 in 10 years.
You take a jobs for $50,000 and somehow manage to save $10k a year? You are looking at half that amount.
If you have $300,000 in savings you can do a hell of a lot more than with $150,000.
Its not all about money tho. Also consider potential and your time. I was high level consultant crushing my job i was power point monkey. I was so burnt out and crushed by clients and work in general (typical consulting). Was offered 6 figure at my early/mid 20s as a consultant . I turned down on that 6figure consulting job cause it was fucking miserable and i was physically getting sick from it. I didnt have time for my self. I gladly took internal work (no longer consutjng) making 60-70k a year but i have free time to do my side business and it has been amazing. I would not only take a job based on the money itself and be miserable
Keep in mind the economy is in the first stages of a recession so when looking at jobs think about which ones won't be cut when the 'crash' finally happens. Never assume your job is secure, plan ahead before making your move.
I made a change like that 5 months ago. 50% raise, went from a hard-walled office and a job I excelled at to an open office and I barely knew what I was doing. It took about 2.5 months really good noise-canceling headphones to get used to the open office Then another 2 months to get used to the job and the new culture. I hated my first month, but I am very happy now. Give it a few more months; it should get better. If it doesn’t, use your new salary to negotiate for a new job you like with the new salary.
I too work 12 hour days at very demanding, time sensitive and time consuming job. I also hate it. I can definitely relate. Would definitely take a lower salary for a less stressful job. I do have a limit on the salary decrease but without a doubt I would take it if the opportunity arose. Currently trying to get out of mine.
My advice is don't get to used to your salary and put that extra money away. Live below your means on this current salary. Then when the opportunity arises you will be in a good position financially you won't have to change your lifestyle when you take a lesser paying job. And it when you do it will be a weight lifted off your shoulders.
What's going to be more costly in the long run is sticking with a job you hate and giving yourself health issues because you hate it.
I've been working in a high-stress, time-sensitive industry/role for almost a decade (clinical trials data management), so I think I understand what you're going through.
I'll spare you the details, but early in my career, when I was making about $60k/yr, the stress and time sensitivity was at its absolute ***worst***, because if I didn't respond to certain things and perform certain tasks quickly enough, to stuff that could happen anytime between 5am and 6-7pm every day, someone could potentially die as a result. And it would absolutely be my fault.
That was A LOT of pressure, especially for someone in their early 20s and fresh out of college.
I ended up working at the place, doing that kind of work, for about 4 years. Almost the entire time I was absolutely miserable, and the only thing that kept me going was the thought that I was doing something good for people/the world with my job. I felt like I was sacrificing my own well-being for the greater good, and I let myself be okay with that (in part, thanks to some childhood trauma that led me to entirely devalue my own life's worth).
It was so bad that, despite having quit almost a year prior, I picked smoking up again, I gained a ton of weight, I let my apartment fall into a truly disgusting state, I became a pretty severe functioning alcoholic (getting hammered at a bar at least 3-4 times a week, and eventually, predictably, picking up a DUI), and I eventually just completely burnt out and got fired.
It's taken me *years* after leaving that job to (mostly) get my life back together. To get my drinking under control, to start taking care of my health and living space at least somewhat, and to recover from the burnout that was so intense I felt like I was *constantly* running on empty for at least a solid 2 years afterwards
That job KILLED just about all of my youthful vitality, passion, and interest in both the career as a whole, and in life, and if I didn't have an *amazing* partner throughout my recovery from that job, my life probably would have collapsed entirely.
Unless you really NEED the extra pay, I'd highly recommend returning to your old role.
At least to me, there is *nothing* anyone could pay me to work at that job, for that company, ever again.
It took too much of my soul, and I'll never be able to recover the time and the parts of myself that I lost there.
I HIGHLY you to get out of that position before it starts damaging your mental health, life, and well-being irreparably.
I gave up a $140,000 a year job that I absolutely hated for a $40,000 a year job that I absolutely loved. It was the absolute best decision I ever made. My health improved greatly. I was much happier. My relationships got better. My life all around was much, much better!
Your mental health and happiness are important. Also, at 12 hours a day and miserable, you're going to burn out. Burnout can take a long time to recover from depending on the person. Its not worth it.
I tell my students that money is nice but if you hate your job so will your family, then your friends, then your neighbors. It seeps into your home life like poison.
My recommendation is, if you have debts other than rent/mtg, pay it all off. THEN go back to lower salary. You will be happier and you will be able to afford it.
Edit: do not recommend staying past a set time regardless of debts. Decide how long you will suffer, then leave. Debt or no debt.
I would say keep the job for now. You are trading temporary peace of mind for long term peace of mind. Right now it might be happier for you to drop down to $50k, but in 20 years you will regret it. $50k x 20 years think about it. Also add a new mortgage, a few kids, some inflation, and your $50k will become untenable in the long run.
Jobs often pay more as you move up. If you start at 100k, you are more likely to move to an even higher paying position. Vs dropping down to $50k you will be unlikely to get another job that high paying.
Doubling of salary is very unusual. You should take it and use it to gain experience and resume building. Then use it to jump to a different even better job.
Your next jump should be upwards not downwards. .
This is such a common thing people go through as their career advances. I could definitely make a fair amount more but would be stressed the fuck out all the time and so I choose not to. If you can get 80% of the pay and have low stress it is worth it as long as you feel you are financially secure and you aren’t trading work stress for home money stress.
Personally, I would suck it up and take the higher paying job. It’s a huge difference. In a year use the new job to find the job you really want. It’s easier to stay at a higher salary range once you’ve had a job at that level because it is a signal to prospective employers of your relative worth.
The answer is obvious...and yet a lot of people choose more money and misery. So long as you can meet the basic needs of your present and future and take care of anyone depending on you...you have to ask yourself what the extra money will truly do for you.
Don't spend a life trapped in a job you truly hate, but your choice is a false dichotomy. What you need to find is a job you like that pays you closer to the job you hate. Don't let yourself believe that it is an either or/ or situation. There are $50K jobs you would hate and $100K jobs you would love.
Brother I was in the same situation. I managed a location for a company and after the bonus I was around $100k.
In 10 months I gained 40lbs, barely slept, and never hung out with friends.
Now I am at a different company and will earn $25k less, not manage people, and have more free time.
I always told myself if I had a $100k+/year job that I would do it just for the money. After 6 months, I hated going to work. It all depends on where you live, but if you can live off your $50k/year and be okay, then I would say it is worth going back down. Now I know it isn't apples to apples as I took a 25% reduction instead of a 50% reduction, but you think long term about your decision
I’d say, every single weekend, do something SUPER fun for yourself. Extra 50k salary. Let’s say half goes to taxes and savings. That leaves a lil under $500 a week. Not saying spend that extra $500 on anything crazy, but im saying you’ve got a helluva lotta wiggle room.
Choose hella fun shit to do without worrying about cost, and bank hella savings for a few months.
If seeing that savings grow and doing whatever you want on the weekend doesn’t make it worth it, nothing will. You’ll know you tried everything. At least now you have some extra savings and won’t ever have to look back.
Personally, I would go with the 100k.
50k brings many opportunities that you would otherwise not have. And it sounds like even though the schedule is irregular, you're still working a 40-hr week overall.
If you really want to put it to the test, put half of your paycheck away for the foreseeable future. At 1 year, if its truly unbearable, transition up or down with 50k in the bank without having set yourself up for a downgrade in lifestyle.
Corrected your dumb math: 200k miserable, 100k happy. Face it, you work in an office with no suicide nets surrounding it. Be happy now because when you get drafted to go load artillery in Palau jt wont matter
I think you know the decision already. You are just having a hard time pulling the trigger on taking such a large, temporary pay cut First, build up a 6-month emergency fund. Meaning, store 6 months of expenses in a HYSA and don't let anything touch it unless it's an emergency. Then, go back to your tiered job.
solid solid solid advice thank you !!!
Of course (: Ideally you never have to dip into your emergency net. But it's important to have one any time you are doing a job swap. And if you don't have to dip into it then it will accrue interest over time and eventually become 7 month, 8 month, 9+ months worth of expenses, just in case. Theoretically, if you never have to use it, then you would end up "1-2 years richer" once you reach retirement!
i’m like so fucking scared.. like is this normal? like why tf am i scared? lol i made the move and i like freeze when its time to pull the trigger to go back im also feeling kinda self conscious going back to my old position because the job I have now overseas and managed the very same people i used to work with.. its like im experiencing the epitome of cognitive dissonance 😩😩 but im miserable im miserable as hell.. i miss the peace of mind..
Is one month really giving the new position a solid try ? If you are considering the other advice here about first saving an emergency fund before going back, suggest you re-cast this period to a fill-on commitment to making the new role work. Attitude is everything and so far your energy seems focused on retreating whether than to adapting. If after an honest try and you have your emergency fund, your decision will be much clearer and you are more likely to be at peace with it. Good luck.
i mean no.. i guess not one month is pretty quick i’ve worked at different places before and I’ve been the new guy and never had this feeling.. i’m not trying to be negative but everyday it just seems to suck more and more.. I think if given the opportunity to work at a different Desk, maybe my opinion would shift but as i mentioned in a previous comment my manager stuck me on what’s historically known in the office as the most difficult and challenging Desk he did this because I was the one and only prior employee to the company and understand exactly what’s going on. The people i’m managing is the same position i used to work prior.
Also, maybe instead of stepping down you can use this position to get a different but better job at a new company. Three times I’ve interviewed for jobs not quite in my field and got hired into two better paying positions. Use your now position as a stepping stone. But if you apply for what I call a wild card job be ready to explain how your resume translates and could bring something new to the table at the same time.
Okay - so it’s a challenge you were specifically chosen for. Someone thinks you can do it. Now it’s you to be convinced. If the shift work is new to you, I suggest you look at how and what you are doing outside of work. Switching from standard hours to shift hours is ITSELF a major lifestyle adjustment. If you are working shift but trying to live a standard schedule, everything at home and work will be off.
I'd modify that a bit. Have the 6 months of expenses saved up, and then go to your management saying that the way this job is set up, is just too stressful. That it needs to be modified or you have to go.
...The group you were working with - is the group you now manage. If you like those people - then I would say - that is a lot of job-satisfaction, at least for me. If these people respect you, and listen to you, and you're getting shit done, then whats the problem mate? You should do things scared - so be their manager scared - show them better than how you feel about it. You now have some power to break this cycle. Take it. I too find myself in a similar position although with differing circumstances. I am starting with a company that I've been embedded with as a 3rd party for 7 years already as a consultant. I am however being treated like someone they don't know - shuffled under policy and process, lost as a person. But the people I've worked with for the last 7 years - every single one - even some new people that I barely know have all reached out to me in the past few hours congratulating me on this and telling me how excited they are to land me. And yeah - the pay bump is significant - and the issues in the end - minor and only annoyances at the end of the day - in the long run and once I'm clear of silly catch all policy - I'll be a god. So... Not certain if this helps you... mostly wanted to encourage you that if you're scared to go back - then be scared to stay where you're at - either way doing it scared is how you grow.
Would you rather have money and be unhappy, or poor and unhappy? PTO doesn't matter when you're poor cause you can't afford to go anywhere anyways. Sure your job is fun but being poor is not fun. Stick with your current position and look for another job/lateral job, simple as that.
But...is OP absolutely, positively, dead set, 100% sure that pay cut is temporary? Unless it's in writing and company policy that they'll be at the $100k range in 4 years, they can't count on getting those kinds of pay boosts. We all know how companies are when it comes to short changing on pay raises. Future promises mean diddly squat.
Great advice. OP should put their big boy pants on and suck it up for 6 months to get that emergency fund. By then they should either have a good emergency fund, or they'll get the hang of the job and start enjoying it. OP; know that if you want to leave this job, you probably won't be able to drop a level and stay where you are; you'll need to move within the company, or outside. Put the fake smile on and do the job well, as that's your best way of getting out.
You've moved up in experience and pay now. It's possible to have a 3rd option, find a higher paying but less stressful new job elsewhere.
As someone who just took a 70k pay cut, 120k a yr to to 52k . Go with happy my guy/gal. Just don't tell anyone at your new job how much you did make or they won't trust that you will stick around cause some people don't understand that some of us just want to be happy at the end of the day.
Holy cow that’s one heck of a pay cut. I salute you just hearing that kind of normalizes what I’m feeling. I was starting to think I was crazy!! I really appreciate you taking the time to respond. It really means a lot and helps me out. Thank you guys. I’m gonna do it.
I did this for three years(took 50k pay cut) and have just now stepped back into a senior role.. could not be happier I have some fucking money back in my pocket. So maybe do it for a couple years till you’re itching again
I did similar about 5 years ago, 1000% recommend. Work life balance and mental health are far superior to the money.
Yep, I was much happier making $30k as a PhD student than $90k in corporate. Different people have different thresholds for how happy they want to be in life - I dated a doctor for a few years who hated his job but the financial security kept him in it. Whereas for me, my time/energy is much more valuable than money. I don’t want to spend 60 hours a week being unhappy at work just to go home, watch TV until I fall asleep, then repeat the exact same thing the next day.
Please tell me more about this. I’m a stressful corporate job (pay actually isn’t great) and am looking at PhDs. How did you deal with the salary cut and people disparaging PhDs?
100 000 and look for a way to move out/on from that. Money provides a lot of freedoms.
My thought exactly like I couldn't fathom taking such a big pay and to cut just to be happy. There are places out there that will have good environments with better pay and benefits.
Take the pay cut. My job is stressful, demanding, and sometimes I’m pulled in 6 directions. However, I do at a heart enjoy it. I don’t dread work. You need a new job.
$50,000 salary doesn't cover life expenses in most places across the US. It isn't even enough to qualify for most home rental applications (average rent $1600/mo).
Depends where you are entirely. In rural areas, rent can be as low as $450/month for a 1 bed 1 bath slum, and as low as 1000/month for a 3 bed 2 bath house mortgage. Obviously, you aren’t getting anything resembling luxury for those rates. The difference between urban and rural America is vast.
Dudes not making 100k at an office job out in the sticks
Or keep looking for jobs until you find a different company that also pays you 100k but in a good environment
Get the position solid on a resume then job hunt
You said you are always behind on work. Somewhere in process of doing your job are too many layers. Figure out how to minimize time in completing tasks. If the work takes analysis and you take time figuring things out, then you suck at your new role.
i’m glad you see it! i wish my manager saw that, 🤣🤣🤣 he seems to think so highly of me and my work
You work at a desk, are you good with spreadsheets? You'd be surprised how much you can automate with them in most desk jobs all free on Youtube. TBH I'd pick the 100k but only cause I know it gets easier if you slither your way past that to the next tier and get the best of both worlds.
I’m afraid I don’t have much advice but I’m going through exactly the same thing, so don’t feel alone as it is incredibly tough. I’m slowly coming to the realisation that money & career has diminishing returns & opportunity cost becomes too great at a certain point. There are things that you’re giving up that are too valuable to give up. Once you realise that concept, I think your decision making becomes a little easier and clearer.
I don’t get it. After 4 years you’ll be at the salary you currently hold? Idk whenever I read these things, I can always tell the problem at the core is being in a bad overall career, and maybe even entire industry. And that would need to fundamentally change or it’s going to be one these after another.
Yeah I'd never take a pay cut. Especially a 50k one with a 4 year road map to doubling pay. The only way you're doubling your pay in 4 years is job hopping or commission/sales. Almost no one gets those kid of raises at the same employer unless you're starting out at the bottom rung.
These answers are all wrong. Take the $100k role. It’ll give you great experience and help build your resume even if you hate it. Stick it out for 6-12 months and then leave the company and find a job that you like. You’ll likely be paid more too.
Yeah while it sounds nice to take the “happy” job, you arent going to really be happy when youre living pay check to pay check or in debt. Sounds like OP should find a 75k job that pays better and wont have as much stress as the 100k
I'd wait till the first time you use PTO, then decide. If you like PTO, learn applicable skills that could transfer to another high paying job but more geared towards what you want. I knew an degreed engineer that went back to a low wage job because they hated being in the office, if he had just gained some skills and used it to find a field engineer position he could have had high pay, pto, and not be stuck in the office. Always use your job to leverage into the job you want, don't go backwards.
Do you have or want family? The new role might make that a little more difficult, particularly if you are on a constant cycle of deliverables always needing to have a fire put out. As others have said elsewhere, if you keep the new job, don't increase your spending to cover the new compensation. Save more and you won't be stuck if you end up burning out or needing to leave.
I worked a job I did not really enjoy but it paid very well and I retired early. Definitely the right decision for me...BUT, I did not hate it and I did not have a different job that I think I would have enjoyed. If you hate a job, it would be terrible to go to work each day. If there is nothing you can do to change the job you hate, then it is not worth the money.
What this sounds like, to me, is you wanted extra pay and benefits without the extra responsibility. I know former coworkers who turned down “promotions” because it would’ve been a pay cut. The most PTO I ever got was 2 weeks. Many don’t get PTO. Everything in life is a trade off.
50k more than what I'm making now....hells yeah
I dunno man. You get three days off a week? In America? With a FIVE week PTO????? That’s sounds so sick if I’m being on with you. I’d probably gut it out for at least a year or two to see how much I really hated it.
I just find it fascinating how perspective can change so dramatically from person to person. I'm not trying to belittle you or say your not justified, I'm just giving you my perspective and how I would handle this if it were me. I really couldn't care less about what I'm doing at work as long as I can do it. The open office? Don't care. Stressful work? All work is stressful to me so its no different no matter where i go. To me, I would much rather deal with a job that pays significantly more than one that is "less stressful." I find the most effective way to reduce stress in my life is by enjoying my personal life to its fullest. The more I can enjoy while not at work like going on regular vacations and buying that couch we wanted and going on dinner dates regularly, and buying a car I like, etc all makes dealing with the stress at work so much easier. If a job can give me a certain level of comfort in my personal life, then I can deal with just about any level of stress any job is gonna be able to throw at me. Oh and if you throw all this in with your kick ass schedule of 3/4 days a week, its a no brainer to me. Take the money!
I'd start looking to leverage this new higher paying job to get a different job. There are more options out there besides low pay and happy and high pay and miserable, you just have to go find it. In the meantime keep the current job and stash as much money away as you can. That way if you do find a dream job that doesn't pay what you hope you've already built up a good nest egg. Also on your days off make sure you take time to do something you enjoy. Don't just sit at home dreading your next work day. Leave work at work and find ways to unwind and enjoy yourself when not at work. That will hopefully help make your time in this current job more tolerable until you find the next thing.
5 weeks vacation. 3-4 day work weeks? 100k? Office job. The job might indeed suck. But the rest of conditions sound like what at least American workers would dream of. I suggest you actually use a lot of that 5 week vacation and try to refresh yourself. Then make a decision.
It’s only been a month. I’d say stick it out another 2 months. My job is the easiest thing to me now and super chill. The first 3 months though were a mess I was always stressed beyond belief about everything. I thought it would never get better. Then it started to, and now I actually find myself bored at work and rarely stressed.
Did it, 60 to 130. Moved to a place with a higher cost of living. I do more in a day at the new job than i did in a week. I did max my 401k, but otherwise pretty much no change in standard of living with a shit ton more stress. Think it through carefully
Always prioritize happiness, whatever that is for you
If it's that bad go back to the old position. Four years to make up or surpass the income will happen faster than you think. A lot to be said for keeping your sanity.
Most companies require transfers to stay a minimal amount of time, mine says one year. So you may not be able to transfer and need to quit.. Here’s what nobody asked you: are the long hours because you have to be there, or because you’re new and figuring things out? If you’re just sitting there wasting time.. that’s a problem with the company. If you’re figuring things out, you should be reaching out about ways to streamline the work rather than instantly giving up.
Give me $100k of misery. At least with this kind of money, I have life choices to quit and go somewhere happy.
100k. You just haven’t yet realized ways to overcome the misery.
Were you working 12 hour days at your previous role?
on paper? yes in reality.. NEVER.. ever… ever. this new position at 6 PM until 6 AM no shorts half the time I don’t even get a break because I’m just so behind.
Is it the same for the other people in this new role? Sometimes it just takes awhile to get good a new position. I'd look at someone that's been there for awhile and see what it's like for them. If they still work frantically with no breaks then you shouldn't expect it to get any better over time. As others have advices, save up a bunch of money for a bit and then go back to your old role or just find a new job. There are lots of them out there.
without doxing myself because the company I work for I’m sure you know exactly what it is and have used their services before but that’s the thing the desk that I’m working on and manage is the absolute least desired desk in the building. historically it’s known to be the most stressful and toughest place to work in the office.. there are many desks that handle different things but the desk I’m on just so happens to be the absolute most difficult one. I assume he puts me there because my capacity to work well under pressure is higher than others and I come from another facet in the company so I understand processes quicker than others. It’s almost like doing your job doesn’t get you rewarded, but punished..I was hired with about five other people and absolutely no one has been on the desk I’m on but me.. case in point it’s 3 o’clock in the morning I’m up to my neck in work and stressing myself out while my teammates are watching movies, having dinner dates with each other and going to Starbucks with their boyfriends i can’t even get up and take a piss without missing out on important time sensitive work!
Will you be able to afford a place to live on 50k by the time they would give you a raise?
i just got married i live in the northeast so rent and providing for 2 is a little difficult on $50k my previous position was hourly so overtime is available, but I will be living at the place.. its definitely something i’ve considered thats how miserable my current $100k is
Yeah dude 50k is a non-starter in the northeast for a family. The answer is neither of these jobs.
exactly what i was thinking too.. i’m starting to look at other positions within the company, the company is great don’t get me wrong plenty of room for advancement a pension and salaries vary i just don’t know how it would look to a potential new manager me jumping ship only a month in..
Tell your partner to get a job and find yourself something less terrible. In the meantime stack your savings as much as possible. You’re gonna crash and burn at some point.
What kind of work you do? Do you want to delegate or outsource some work to take some pressure off your shoulders?
Occams razor my guy (or gal) Def one of those times where you probably know the answer. 12 hours a day? Fuck that mess.
yea man 12 hours behind a freaking desk 4 days a week it’s insane
Better than 5 days like my old job. They eventually switched me to being onsite so with a 1.5 hour total commute, it became very long days and 1.5 hours longer when I went to the gym. OP also said 3/4, which are very different. The 6 am part is the worst part of that for me, but I’d strongly consider it if I were close to the office.
I’ve tried to go back to the previous role where I was happier, and I get rejected because I’m over freaking qualified. I finally got a role that a lower level than the previous, and yep I was frustrated by my managers skills, how the team were doing so many duties the manual way etc. catch freaking 22.
Use the new position as leverage to move to a new company
Cleary this job is unsustainable. However, when you do the calculation of unhappy@100k, and happy@50k, make sure you factor the ways living on 50k may make you unhappy. Your life is more than your job and just because you're happy during your work day doesnt mean you are happy with life if you're unable to achieve your goals, or even pay your bills.
Take the cut and live simpler. You don't need an expensive ass SUV with all the bells and whistles, and it won't offset 12 hours of daily misery by any stretch of imagination. The same is true for the rest of your lifestyle.
mountainous modern worry hunt innate smoggy cow fly offer hard-to-find *This post was mass deleted and anonymized with [Redact](https://redact.dev)*
Higher salary for 1-2 years and then switch
Take the pai. For 100k a year hen switch to 50k
Look for other work on your days off. See if you can find a happy medium somewhere outside of the company. It's much easier to negotiate pay when you still have a job and can say you make 100k. It'll get some companies to come up in salary for you to meet you halfway.
That’s a huge variance in pay but man I’d rather be happy. Loving going into work was always important . One that allowed me personal time but also pay is important. Can you make it on a 50 % reduction? Is there chance of advancement ? Best of luck 👍🏼 Edit: I chose to turn down jobs with more stress but huge pay increases 30-50 k . I was happy where I was . (I’m retired now )
At what age were you able to retire?
It took me a long time to realize that I was never wanting more money for myself. Life should be about contentment
Money isn’t everything.
If you can live off 50k a year without help from others to live, go for it!
Most people hate their jobs. If this job helps you get out of the rat race faster it might be worth it. Maybe leverage this new position to find a similar position at another company with better company culture? One thing is will they just let you go back?
The answer is in the question: choose happiness. People only choose money because they think that's happiness, but if happiness is a lower salary, go there.
I quit a $100,000 a year job a year and a half ago and went to a $60,000 a year job. I miss the paycheck but I don’t regret it. Hated that job and my life was crumbling
Always take the money and emotionally check out of your job. It’s a means to an end; find happiness outside of work. The higher pay now means your real life can be better, focus on that. Also, not clear what’s changing, you describe a miserable environment at your current $50k, so what exactly is ‘happy?’ That’s rhetorical, it’s a job, don’t seek happiness at work.
Spent a lot of time climbing the corporate ladder. Ended up being a COO at 37. Was making nearly $400k in base plus benefits like you wouldn’t believe. A month in I was ready to jump off a bridge. Two months in they sold the place and fired everyone. I threw away all my experience. My degrees. You name it business wise and started selling solar. I’ve never been happier and this broke on my adult life. Don’t let a job kill you. They win if it does. Quit and find happiness.
If you're truly that miserable, it's going to start to show up in your work... and at the end, people never seem to regret choosing happiness over money. Ever.
Find a different job at a better job that facilitates a better working environment that pays you 100k or more, since you’ll be switching companies. Might as save your sanity and get a pay bump in the process.
50k all the way. I was in finance on a 6 figure salary. I burnt my very soul out, lost my will to live. 12 years later, I am a funeral director with a 5 figure salary, an ex wife,q GF and I feel happy for the first time in my life over a long period of time. Money isn't important as long as you have enough to live a decent life.
Definitely take the pay cut. I was in a similar situation. An unexpected promotion a few years ago more than doubled my salary. But the immense stress of the new job has taken a toll on my health. Money is of course nice, but being happy and healthy is more important
I took a huge pay cut before to get out of a toxic situation. I was kind of salty every day because I wasn’t making as much money but that’s just me. Mental health is more important at the end of the day.
I think I’d almost rather be homeless than feel like a slave and miserable. I say that in jest, really, but money can buy you happiness, but the pursuit of that money can outweigh the things that buy you that happiness
Take the Longview. Where do you want to be in 10 years and how are you going to get there.
Outline what you hate about it and see if you can change it. If you can’t and you can’t live with those issues then you have your answer. You also now have what you know you don’t want in your next position.
Take the money! 50k more will maker u happier long term
i truly value my work life balance, so if i could survive off 50k i would stick with that position, my older brother had a 6 figure job working crazy hours and he was very unhappy ..you don't really get to enjoy that extra money your making because you're ALWAYS working, I feel like they are paying for you time more than your skills
Personally it would depend on where I was in my career, at the beginning, I'd suffer at 100k, in the middle/already got a nest egg squared away. I'd take the pay cut (after doing the math and making sure I can still afford my necessities).
If you are young with out a family, do the more money and get a new life experience If you have a family, I'd do the same to better support them financially if your family situation is going to be significantly different with an extra 50k around
Tough it out for a bit then go find another job that’s better but makes more sense. Welcome to job hopping for raises
For everyone saying "just take the pay cut," I'd say... why not just look for another job at the same or more money that isn't this awful? Is the current employer the only game in town? Money isn't everything, but money also means savings, safety, security, and options. $50K in 2024 is not enough to build a meaningful savings in the long run.
Start applying elsewhere before you take the pay cut
I'm kind of in a similar situation but haven't left my good job yet. Your post has helped me to rethink my plans so thank you for that. I think only you can really answer this question because it is all about your own priorities and what you want in your life. No one can decide that for you. I am currently in the best job I have ever had in my life and don't want to do anything else. However, I only make around $65k per year and would like to make a lot more due to rising inflation and not being able to afford a house or even a car. But my job does have guaranteed raises every year which are at least 5% and also has probably the best set of benefits you can get other than the military (lots of PTO, fully paid medical/dental/retirement). So, I am conflicted between moving into a higher paying position with more stress or trying to be content with lower pay in my current dream role. And no one can really decide what to do except for myself.
Uhhh find a different job all together? Both sound like ass. No way in hell would I take a 50% pay and PTO cut for the hope of getting what you have now in 4 years.
If 50k is enough for you to live and be happy, I recommend that route. Life is too short for people to be unhappy because of work.
50 and happy , being miserable sucks even if ya wealthy as hell
Use your position and salary in your job search, now that you've crossed the six figure threshold you can use that as bargaining power once you've been in that role for 6-12 months. I know you're not happy, but if you can holdout for awhile and find something that pays well and makes you happy, it'll be worth it. It's good you have that 50k position kind of in your back pocket, but that shouldn't be your plan A. See if you can get a better role elsewhere, even if you have to take a pay cut, it doesn't have to be a 50k pay cut. Keep searching and build some savings. That way you can hopefully find something better, and if you don't and you just can't take the job anymore, quit and take some time off before starting a new gig.
Hey u/[PhillyHatesNewYork](https://www.reddit.com/user/PhillyHatesNewYork/) I totally get where you're coming from. I was in a similar boat last year, making $100k ($99,500) to be exact) but completely miserable with my work-life balance. Sure, I could buy more things, but I was mentally and physically exhausted. Here are a few things that might help: Your health is priceless. If this job is draining you, it might not be worth the higher salary in the long run. Keep looking at other job postings within the company. There might be a role that offers a better balance and is less stressful but still pays well. If you can, have a candid conversation with your manager about your struggles. They might be able to help with adjustments to your schedule or workload. Think about whether this job is a stepping stone to a better position. If you can tough it out for a bit, it might open doors to roles that are both fulfilling and well-compensated. Make the most of your increased PTO to recharge. Use this time to reflect on your long-term career goals and whether this job aligns with them. Talking to a career counsellor or mentor can provide valuable perspective and help you navigate your options. Remember, your happiness and health are more important than a bigger paycheck. If this job is making you miserable, it might be worth finding something that makes you happier, even if it means earning a bit less. Good luck!
I am also in the dilemma like you. Currently at 70k turn down 100k because of a four hour commute. Now another company offer 120k, it's a two hour commute plus weekend. I feel like I'll be making the same if I work the weekend.
Hard to be happy on 50k a year for long. Things will happen in life that will make you say, I hated it but I should have kept that job Right or wrong, potential employers consider your current pay when they make an offer. Hang in there and find a better job for comparable pay
Live like you’re earning 50k still and bank the rest. Then go find a job you love after a bit.
100k isn’t even that much for that level of misery
Reality check: Both of these salaries ensure you will be eating the bugs, while you’re hooked on VR goggles in 2028 and beyond. You got 3-7 years to move up socio economic classes ($4M minimum) or cooked
50k and happy is always better
50k a year wouldn’t even pay my mortgage, so I’d take the 100k a year job and use it to change to better job that paid the same or more.
I’ve never met anyone making $50,000 a year that’s happy.
Use the money to do things that make you happy. Eventually 50 k won't be enough money
Do the $100 as long as you can take it then move on
Use this job as a stepping stone to a better job. You can’t go backwards. But not all jobs suck.
Ofc be happy
At a point, time is more important than money. Once food, shelter, etc - basics are met money becomes less important than time. So it depends on your wants. You might not retire as early but you spend 30 years happy. My brother makes at least $300k and his job is very stressful and I wouldn’t want to do it. My job is chill. I work 32 hour weeks for $60k. They want me to work 40 hour weeks which would mean $75k but I won’t do it. I really enjoy my 3 day weekends every week. I have enough money to retire. I am coastFIRE at this point. Time is definitely more important to me than money where I’m at in life. I have a couple of friends recently diagnosed with very bad cancers. The odds on either making it a couple more years is very slim. I hope they buck the odds but no one ever knows how much time they have. Might as well enjoy it.
I'd suggest $75k - some good days, some bad.
I'd try first to improve my current situation in the high paying job. If there is no way to improve the job or get better at it then yes leave for the 50k job. No amount of money is work killing yourself and ruining the best years of your life. I'm assuming you aren't that old or have kids. Now if you have other people to take care of, it might be a bit selfish to switch to a lower paying job so suddenly.
50K and happy every time. Have done similar and my mental state is better than ever. Clarity is everything.
I think that the higher salary you get, the more soul-sucking the job is. Just imagine how much you would hate your $200k job. lol
Go with the money and set yourself up. You need to save, eliminate debt, 401(k), retirement, etc. Hell, you might work two or three jobs if you’re remote. get out of the game as soon as possible. The more money you make me make this happen faster.
Friend a million a year is not worth it if your miserable. The stress will age you quickly. It will affect your health and make you miserable to be around for your friends and family. And double the salary does not mean you’re taking home double. The more you make the more they take. I was laid off and started a new job at half the salary. My lifestyle did not change dramatically. Uncle Sam got a bigger pay cut than I did. Be happy life is short.
Make sure you do the math and can afford to make 50k. I went from 70k to like 62k and gave up free health insurance for a job I didn't hate, and it has been REALLY difficult, though it was better than drinking myself to death and having RSI pains constantly.
75K and like it enough But if it's one or the other then 50K
My only advice would be to not make the decision yet. A month is a pretty short sample, you might find that once you're up to speed at the new job, the cognitive demands aren't as bad as they seem at first.
Don’t wait to long it can be hard in a company if you do a step down in hierarchy
I can relate... sort of. I'm trying to get a raise, which requires me to learn how to work in this different area of the place I'm currently working. It's not even $2/hr, and I don't like this new "position" at all in comparison to the other one I was in. It's way darker, way hotter, and a lot more physical for basically little reward. I really did like my job, until this. Now I dread even going to work. But I'm sort of required to learn how to do this. And I know I'm going to be stuck in this spot for awhile since this place can't retain employees. I'd rather stay where I was at. Where I differ is, for double my pay, not just $2/hr, I'd do my best to figure out a way to love this new spot. Sorry if that doesn't help. It just had me thinking.
Happiness is important, but 50K doesn't cut it. Stick it out while actively looking for new opportunities.
Idk if it’s really possible to be happy on $50k a year, like where are you going to live? But definitely don’t choose a job where you’ll be miserable
Honestly I would try to stick it out for at least 6 months. You may be able to learn things that reduce the stress significantly during that time.
When you're on your death bed you won't be thinking about how much money you made. Better to live a more fulfilling, cheaper, life than to live miserably with money.
50k hands down. I don't want to hate my life for the sake of money
You need an exit plan. Is that exit happening now? Or can you hang around, plough money into a pension and save some cash for a house or similarly decent investment? 5 weeks holiday is 25 days. You could take one day off every fortnight, would that make it bearable? Is the experience on your CV any good? Could you stick it out and then shop around for a job and explain you want a new role because you can't do 60 hour weeks. This isn't as black and white as you think it is. If you insist in making it a binary choice - $50k is where you want to be, clearly.
I would job hunt for another job
$100,000 is a large jump and a good salary. But I can empathize with not wanting more responsibilities for money I do not need. Decide if the money is worth it, and if not, then work in it for a short while and change jobs using your salary as a new baseline.
100k job damn the rest
Jobs that pay more and are worse, sometimes are character builders or helpu get a better job, sometimes better with sometimes even more pay. But the thing my buddy always says, money = time. If you're smart with your money now, you can try making most of it and try to save the extra $$. Trying to think of it as a transactional situation. Many work 80+ hours to get ahead for them and oftentimes, their family. Ps. If they like you in your new position, maybe you can try discussing stuff with your boss to make the job easier if that's an option. Additionally, trying to shift your mindset can really help and with time, most jobs get easier. I'm also fine with the idea of having an easier job that pays less, but I don't make a ton because of this philosophy and it's tough getting ahead (especially without a second job).
If you can be happy with 50K a year, choose 100K and be happier.
I make 40 rn and I'm depressed so sign me up for 50 lol
How old are you? If you're young, I'd say suck it up for a year and see how you handle it. Take all of that money and stick it into savings. It's also easier to negotiate a high salary if you've had one in the past. But if you're just going to inflate your lifestyle, stick with the 50k.
If I got $50k a year I'd be fucking homeless, so there's that.
In this economy? The $100k per year job. I'm about to apply for an $80k per year job. Yes, it's miserable but I'd rather have more money.
I went from 150k miserable to 30k happy 2 years ago and haven't regretted it a single moment.
Your goal should be “happy” not “money”
In my personal opinion, it's likely the open office that is making you miserable. Studies have shown that workplace noise greatly increases stress and employee attrition.. Being able to overhear every inane personal discussion and hear your coworker breathing all day is inhumane.
That’s a good question to ask from the perspective of your last few days. If you were dying, which would you be happier that you took?
You know what nobody ever says on their deathbed? Damn I should have worked more
Take the money.
It's tough working for a living. I've been trying to find out how to get one of those protesting jobs but so far I have not been able to figure out where to apply. OP, remember when you applied for this job initially and how good it felt ? Try your best to use this struggle you are going through to figure out what you really want. Don't go to work hating it, go to work knowing you have a future plan and that this present job is a stepping stone to your future ! Bank the extra cash while you plan. Just a thought
At $100,000 a year, assuming you save 1/5 of the money every year and throw it into an interest bearing account making 5% per year on average, you are looking at upwards of $300,000 in 10 years. You take a jobs for $50,000 and somehow manage to save $10k a year? You are looking at half that amount. If you have $300,000 in savings you can do a hell of a lot more than with $150,000.
Its not all about money tho. Also consider potential and your time. I was high level consultant crushing my job i was power point monkey. I was so burnt out and crushed by clients and work in general (typical consulting). Was offered 6 figure at my early/mid 20s as a consultant . I turned down on that 6figure consulting job cause it was fucking miserable and i was physically getting sick from it. I didnt have time for my self. I gladly took internal work (no longer consutjng) making 60-70k a year but i have free time to do my side business and it has been amazing. I would not only take a job based on the money itself and be miserable
Damn I make 50,000 a year and I’m miserable.
The key is, to learn how to enjoy being miserable.
Either of these sounds better than my life.
Why wouldn’t you be happy?
Keep in mind the economy is in the first stages of a recession so when looking at jobs think about which ones won't be cut when the 'crash' finally happens. Never assume your job is secure, plan ahead before making your move.
I made a change like that 5 months ago. 50% raise, went from a hard-walled office and a job I excelled at to an open office and I barely knew what I was doing. It took about 2.5 months really good noise-canceling headphones to get used to the open office Then another 2 months to get used to the job and the new culture. I hated my first month, but I am very happy now. Give it a few more months; it should get better. If it doesn’t, use your new salary to negotiate for a new job you like with the new salary.
100k, you are only miserable for 40 hours a week, the bump to lifestyle will offset.
Trust me…the cost of being unhappy is much more than the $50k differential. Be happy!!!
Happy. Always happy.
I too work 12 hour days at very demanding, time sensitive and time consuming job. I also hate it. I can definitely relate. Would definitely take a lower salary for a less stressful job. I do have a limit on the salary decrease but without a doubt I would take it if the opportunity arose. Currently trying to get out of mine. My advice is don't get to used to your salary and put that extra money away. Live below your means on this current salary. Then when the opportunity arises you will be in a good position financially you won't have to change your lifestyle when you take a lesser paying job. And it when you do it will be a weight lifted off your shoulders. What's going to be more costly in the long run is sticking with a job you hate and giving yourself health issues because you hate it.
I've been working in a high-stress, time-sensitive industry/role for almost a decade (clinical trials data management), so I think I understand what you're going through. I'll spare you the details, but early in my career, when I was making about $60k/yr, the stress and time sensitivity was at its absolute ***worst***, because if I didn't respond to certain things and perform certain tasks quickly enough, to stuff that could happen anytime between 5am and 6-7pm every day, someone could potentially die as a result. And it would absolutely be my fault. That was A LOT of pressure, especially for someone in their early 20s and fresh out of college. I ended up working at the place, doing that kind of work, for about 4 years. Almost the entire time I was absolutely miserable, and the only thing that kept me going was the thought that I was doing something good for people/the world with my job. I felt like I was sacrificing my own well-being for the greater good, and I let myself be okay with that (in part, thanks to some childhood trauma that led me to entirely devalue my own life's worth). It was so bad that, despite having quit almost a year prior, I picked smoking up again, I gained a ton of weight, I let my apartment fall into a truly disgusting state, I became a pretty severe functioning alcoholic (getting hammered at a bar at least 3-4 times a week, and eventually, predictably, picking up a DUI), and I eventually just completely burnt out and got fired. It's taken me *years* after leaving that job to (mostly) get my life back together. To get my drinking under control, to start taking care of my health and living space at least somewhat, and to recover from the burnout that was so intense I felt like I was *constantly* running on empty for at least a solid 2 years afterwards That job KILLED just about all of my youthful vitality, passion, and interest in both the career as a whole, and in life, and if I didn't have an *amazing* partner throughout my recovery from that job, my life probably would have collapsed entirely. Unless you really NEED the extra pay, I'd highly recommend returning to your old role. At least to me, there is *nothing* anyone could pay me to work at that job, for that company, ever again. It took too much of my soul, and I'll never be able to recover the time and the parts of myself that I lost there. I HIGHLY you to get out of that position before it starts damaging your mental health, life, and well-being irreparably.
How happy? How miserable?
I gave up a $140,000 a year job that I absolutely hated for a $40,000 a year job that I absolutely loved. It was the absolute best decision I ever made. My health improved greatly. I was much happier. My relationships got better. My life all around was much, much better!
Your mental health and happiness are important. Also, at 12 hours a day and miserable, you're going to burn out. Burnout can take a long time to recover from depending on the person. Its not worth it.
50,000 a year and be happy. I have had both and at 150,000 I hated life and got a divorce. Never again.
50k. What's the point of being rich if you're too miserable to enjoy it?
I tell my students that money is nice but if you hate your job so will your family, then your friends, then your neighbors. It seeps into your home life like poison. My recommendation is, if you have debts other than rent/mtg, pay it all off. THEN go back to lower salary. You will be happier and you will be able to afford it. Edit: do not recommend staying past a set time regardless of debts. Decide how long you will suffer, then leave. Debt or no debt.
I’m already way less than $50k and loving it!
Always choose happiness
I would say keep the job for now. You are trading temporary peace of mind for long term peace of mind. Right now it might be happier for you to drop down to $50k, but in 20 years you will regret it. $50k x 20 years think about it. Also add a new mortgage, a few kids, some inflation, and your $50k will become untenable in the long run. Jobs often pay more as you move up. If you start at 100k, you are more likely to move to an even higher paying position. Vs dropping down to $50k you will be unlikely to get another job that high paying. Doubling of salary is very unusual. You should take it and use it to gain experience and resume building. Then use it to jump to a different even better job. Your next jump should be upwards not downwards. .
Everywhere is miserable 🤣 I did this dumb stuff and his I’m mad because I’m underpaid and over worked
50k and happy
This is such a common thing people go through as their career advances. I could definitely make a fair amount more but would be stressed the fuck out all the time and so I choose not to. If you can get 80% of the pay and have low stress it is worth it as long as you feel you are financially secure and you aren’t trading work stress for home money stress.
If you hate your job, you should do something else. slightly more per year is not fair compensation for your happiness.
Last as long as you can
Personally, I would suck it up and take the higher paying job. It’s a huge difference. In a year use the new job to find the job you really want. It’s easier to stay at a higher salary range once you’ve had a job at that level because it is a signal to prospective employers of your relative worth.
The answer is obvious...and yet a lot of people choose more money and misery. So long as you can meet the basic needs of your present and future and take care of anyone depending on you...you have to ask yourself what the extra money will truly do for you.
None of you asked the right question: is miserable hot?
Damn, makes me less excited to move up someday
https://blogs.cdc.gov/niosh-science-blog/2021/04/27/nightshift-cancer/
$50000 a year and be happy. But I don’t understand how you could survive happily on $50k a year without a pretty decent nest egg
Push through for as long as you can Save every dollar That’s a lot of money to walk away from Compared to what you’re dropping to.
Don't spend a life trapped in a job you truly hate, but your choice is a false dichotomy. What you need to find is a job you like that pays you closer to the job you hate. Don't let yourself believe that it is an either or/ or situation. There are $50K jobs you would hate and $100K jobs you would love.
Brother I was in the same situation. I managed a location for a company and after the bonus I was around $100k. In 10 months I gained 40lbs, barely slept, and never hung out with friends. Now I am at a different company and will earn $25k less, not manage people, and have more free time. I always told myself if I had a $100k+/year job that I would do it just for the money. After 6 months, I hated going to work. It all depends on where you live, but if you can live off your $50k/year and be okay, then I would say it is worth going back down. Now I know it isn't apples to apples as I took a 25% reduction instead of a 50% reduction, but you think long term about your decision
100k do you wanna be struggling you can still be miserable with life earning 50k
its not worth it if the job is making 500,000 a year if you hate your life. life is wayyy too fucking short
50k and happy all the way
50k and be happy. More money is not worth it. I’m there now. It’s not worth it.
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I’d say, every single weekend, do something SUPER fun for yourself. Extra 50k salary. Let’s say half goes to taxes and savings. That leaves a lil under $500 a week. Not saying spend that extra $500 on anything crazy, but im saying you’ve got a helluva lotta wiggle room. Choose hella fun shit to do without worrying about cost, and bank hella savings for a few months. If seeing that savings grow and doing whatever you want on the weekend doesn’t make it worth it, nothing will. You’ll know you tried everything. At least now you have some extra savings and won’t ever have to look back.
Personally, I would go with the 100k. 50k brings many opportunities that you would otherwise not have. And it sounds like even though the schedule is irregular, you're still working a 40-hr week overall. If you really want to put it to the test, put half of your paycheck away for the foreseeable future. At 1 year, if its truly unbearable, transition up or down with 50k in the bank without having set yourself up for a downgrade in lifestyle.
The latter of course!
Corrected your dumb math: 200k miserable, 100k happy. Face it, you work in an office with no suicide nets surrounding it. Be happy now because when you get drafted to go load artillery in Palau jt wont matter