I quit.
I spent all day yesterday reading your posts. I talked to DH online while he was at work. I called my best friend and my mom. Through it all, I realized I knew in my heart what I truly wanted to do and what was going to be best for me, I just needed to make sure I wasn't missing some other "big picture" point/perspective.
It basically came down to the fact that we can afford to keep living the way we're living right now -- no kids, in an apartment, not taking huge vacations -- for even a prolonged period of time if need be while I look for another/better job. Being unhappy in that job just wasn't worth it. It not only took a toll on my performance at work, but the stress was starting to cause health problems and my unhappiness was definitely putting a strain on our marriage.
So, I quit. I got a very nice e-mail back from my department chair, and I'm contacting the Dean's assistant to find how where I am supposed to turn in my keys/parking pass/etc. And now I'm free to figure out what it is I really want to do with my life. It's exhilirhating and terrifying all at the same time, but I just keep this quote in mind:
"In order to discover new oceans, we must be willing to lose sight of the shore."
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Aww, well, congrats on making a decision! I'm sure you've looked at every angle and did the best thing for you. Your happiness is something not to be overlooked.
Now what are your next steps?
Lucy Elizabeth 10.27.12
I have already sent out resumes to some schools for admin/student affairs positions, which is what I used to do. I'm feeling mixed about those, but I know I'm qualified for them. However, most of the schools are in a budget crunch and may actually end up in a hiring freeze, so...
Beyond that, I'm going to start reading up on other companies. I may take some of my school's career center's silly "what job is right for you?" quizzes (I say silly because I've seen them and they honestly seem more like a facebook quiz than an actual predictor/aptitude exam...).
I'm turning in applications for part-time work at a few local bookstores, including one that a good friend of mine already works at but is leaving soon because she's moving to China -- SO, she's putting in a good word with her manager for me. I'm also going to take this time to focus on finishing my Master's Thesis so I can get school done with and behind me in just one semester rather than needing a whole third year.
At home, I'm pretty much taking on all the household duties since I'm not contributing as much financially. DH and I used to split chores, but that's also because we split all expenses. Now that we're not doing that anymore, I figure picking up more of the chores will help compensate a little...
Good for you and best of luck! DH and I have some big changes coming our way this year and I really found this quote inspiring. I'm saving this one.
I think this is very wise. Live cheaply this year and focus on your thesis so that you can finish your degree. You'll value your accomplishment and you won't end up drifting away from it and wishing you had finished your masters.
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