Earlier this week, I had to objectively answer a question about work and income, and I had to stop and think about it because the answer didn’t roll off my tongue.
The question is: how much do I want to earn, and when do I need to reach such income?
I came from a job that paid well. Well above the market average for the same position. I heard that in interviews, from my career coach and from people I talked to who opened their eyes wide when they heard what my last salary was, telling me no other companies paid that well. Maybe that contributed to the company cutting so many jobs in the past two years. Books didn’t balance.
Anyway, I got used to a high income and, consequently, high expenses. I’ve reduced my expenses, obviously, but they could be even lower. So here come more questions. How much do I want to earn? And how much do I need to earn? And, more importantly, how much am I willing to sacrifice to earn what I want?
This transition period brought me time and freedom I never had before. I’ve been able to plan my day based on my needs. I can spend time with my husband, go to the gym 4 times a week, take my dog to the vet, and visit my grandmother in the hospital (she passed away, unfortunately, but at least I was able to visit her). And all while not having to ask anyone for permission, to explain myself or to make up for those missed hours later.
How much is this freedom worth? Is it worth more than an impulse buy of an expensive handbag, or a beautiful skirt that will be forgotten in the wardrobe, still with the tags attached, for months, or a must-have pair of shoes which will be worn twice, at the most?
I feel I’m putting more value into my quality of life lately. What I need right now is work that can get me a good income. Not necessarily a job that will give me a massive salary, but will take away my soul in exchange. With each passing day, I put more emphasis on doing something I like, that makes me proud, but allows me to take care of my personal life too. I’m seeking identification and quality of life even more.
What will happen in the next 6 months? I don’t know. I hope to have an income that gives me some comfort and a job that satisfies me professionally and personally. This text is not a conclusion, it’s merely a reflection. We’ll see what the next chapters will bring us.
