I also had little support and as a result had to work really hard and had many twists in my life as well.

Just the same, I’m kinda glad for those hills I had to climb. I learned a lot that way too.

Being a recent college grad myself, I know first hand the stresses of finishing school strong and having the money to keep oneself afloat during and immediately after school.

I was able to find a part time job that could have become full time in the non-profit field (my preferred place). Unfortunately with the economy tanking as it has, they had to cut my position. So, I took a lower paying job with the bonuses of it being within my field, a benefited position and a two mile commute. Although I wish I made more, I can see that the position will put me on track to learn about non-profit management and will help me transition to a better and bigger job down the road or perhaps an advanced degree when I have the financial flexibility to make that investment.

Cumulatively, we took a 50% pay cut when she quit working and I took a corporate job for the benefits.

Turned out to be the best thing ever; she is home with the kid’s everyday, we have benefits, and I love the job.

The best part of the whole deal was that we couldn’t adjust quickly to a new standard of living and got into debt. This forced us not only to reign in spending but also learn more about our finances and establish budgets and a long-term plan to achieve a comfortable retirement. Except the mortgage, we are now debt free and couldn’t be happier.

Sometimes the most difficult choices are the best ones you can make!

Great Post! Good luck to your daughter!

ThirtySomething #4 I really salute your willingness to re-examine your career and take bold action. One of my friends started as a mortgage broker, became an attorney and is now in the process of becoming a therapist! We only go around once…why settle?

Marci – also, nice job on thinking it through!

Sam #7 – Hey buddy…..I’m on my way home sitting in Ben Gurion airport – they have free internet!!!

And I agree…..I’m hoping she’ll accept my offer. I’ll keep you posted….she’s really hard headed. (Wonder where that came from?)

It’s great your daughter works PT. Just make sure her PT job doesn’t negatively affect her studies. As soon as there’s a hint of pressure, perhaps it’s best for her to just focus on her studies the last 6 months?

It resulted in an increased net cash flow by taking the day off

And now that I am older, the time off to spend with family/grandkids is more important to me than the money from working. My needs are very simple. And I’m debt free – so it gives me that option to work less.