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Finally picked the quiet job over the big money one. Here's what happened.
I had to choose between a sales role that paid $85k plus commission but had me working 50+ hours a week, and a receptionist gig at a small dental office in Portland for $38k flat. I went with the lower paying one because I craved a normal sleep schedule and weekends off. After 6 months, I'm way less stressed and I actually have time to cook dinner and see friends. Has anyone else made a similar trade off and felt like it was worth it?
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ray_martinez821mo ago
You mentioned Portland, I'm curious what the cost of living situation looks like for you now. Because $38k in that city feels tight, even for a single person. Did you have to make any big lifestyle changes like downgrading your apartment or getting a roommate to make the math work? I just wonder how long the peace of mind lasts when money gets really tight, especially if an unexpected car repair or medical bill comes up.
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spencer9811mo ago
Man that's the thing nobody talks about when they say you should just take a lower paying job for your mental health. A single medical bill or a blown transmission can wipe out all that peace real quick.
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the_taylor1mo ago
Been there with the transmission thing. That's why I tell people to build up a 3 month emergency fund before making the jump, even if it means waiting an extra year. Peace of mind only works if you have a buffer for the real world hitting you.
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