Choosing Family over Career

Philippines
April 9, 2012 9:02am CST
I've been working either part time or full time since I was 17 and I always find something to be busy with. I love the feeling of being compensated for my effort, skill and time, so i always give my best in every role I take. However, when I got pregnant with our second baby, I felt the need to give more time at home taking care of both my husband and kids. It wasn't an easy decision to leave my job, as I was at the peak of a growing professional career as a senior sales manager. And of course, the pay was really good and there's a lot of things I could do with it such as helping with my family's (mother and siblings) finances. Despite the puzzling moments of decision making on this big turn, I have convinced myself to give up the career and start being a real wife and mom. I'm still at my 4th month as a stay-at-home mom and still adjusting. I'm happy so far, and I'm just worried that later on, I would miss career life and the earnings.
5 responses
@pjha1975 (214)
• India
9 Apr 12
It's highly commendable that you have chosen to be a stay-at-home mom during your pregnancy during your most peak time, professionally. Many women would generally opt for their careers over their family. But, there are always exceptions to the rules.. Babies need their mothers until they are at least 1 - 2 yrs old. After that, well they have their own individuality. But, if you ever want to get back into the Corporate world, I am sure no company would close their doors to you. Nevertheless, you should know full well that if you begin working once again after a 2 year gap, you might need to restart from the very bottom of the hierarchy. If you are ready for that, then it shouldn't be a problem. I still have to say I admire your spirit & attitude... Lotsa congrats & best of luck!!! :-)
• Philippines
9 Apr 12
Thanks. Although, it is not in our immediate plans for me to get back to the corporate world after i give birth, but the company I used to work for gives value to employees who've proven to be an asset to the company, so that somehow gives me the confidence that I have some career to go back to when the time comes. However, if the situation changes in the future, I'm ready to take the consequence of starting at a lower rank.
@airasheila (5454)
• Philippines
10 Apr 12
good day, honestly speaking, i was one of those persons who have done that decision. choosing to be with my family over my career. although i am not yet married and still on my peak of being single, i have chosen to go back home and redirected towards another path of career to be with my family. but, as time goes by, i have slowly realized that i have done the wrong move. that the support i am needing was not properly given. so i have to adopt all the changes all by myself. and since i was already in this life, i need to carry on moving even though i feel a lot of pain inside my heart. that i never thought that this situation will come. it is because, everything was fine during the planning stage, before i have filed my resignation from the company where i was working. but, apparently, the family that i have chose to lived slowly turn their backs from me.
@shylade (3132)
• Philippines
10 Apr 12
wow! this is what i dream of. to be a stay at home mom. you know you will not regret this for sure because you are doing it for your baby. I also want to do the same but this is not possible for the moment. i know God has a better plan for us so i will wait for the right time. by the way, you xcan still make an income while at home by writing an article, or find a home based work. goodluck to you and stay happy.
• Philippines
10 Apr 12
I admire you for choosing to stay at home and take care of your kids and husband. It's worth all the sacrifice you'll make, considering the love and care you will provide for those close to your heart. Money will never be an issue with the love and attention you can offer. I believe that your hubby will be responsible enough to provide for the needs of the family. Family is a high priority for some few who consider it important. There are only few who can give up their career for family.
@yiart65 (146)
• Singapore
9 Apr 12
If you miss your career life later on in life, you can always go back to the working society. But of course, you might have to start working your way from the bottom again. Earning an income in important as most of our life basic(monthly bills, kids expense,etc) requires money but always remind yourself not to be a money slave. Find a job that you like, in that way, you are earning an income and enjoying your job! And of course, spending quality time with your family and kids as well! :)