Poll: Money or Fun...Crunch time...

[NeferX]

Hi All,

I have a dilemma. Recently I was made redundant (insert "awww" here). No big deal really as I saw it coming as the company was planning a move from the UK to the Ukraine.

My work history is in Sales and Relationship Management, most recently in the environmental sector. I have been applying for some roles that I find interesting, namely in the gaming market. One has recently come up in a big name video game company, and I have been lucky to have been offered it. A decent job in an industry I love. However, the pay isnt great. Overall I would be taking a financial and responsibility step backwards in order to do something interesting and fun. Also potentially giving me further opportunities to make something of myself in the industry.

My problem is this. One of my previous competitors has heard about our company moving, and has offered me a similar role that I was already doing, at a massive pay increase. More than double of what the gaming industry role is offering. Keep in mind I do not hate my current industry...

I will still be able to pay the bills etc with the gaming job, but I am getting married this year and also planning on starting a family. Should I act responsibly and take the higher income job, or try to follow my interests?

If you could answer the poll, it would be great! Feel free to comment with any other suggestions...Will let you know how it turns out.

Cheers,
Nef

 

[Jonluw]

I would always recommend to pursue a career in something you like. It's a luxury most people aren't afforded, and it's sure to make you happier than doing a job only for the sake of the paycheck.

When the pay in the slightly more boring alternative is twice as large though, I'm not so sure anymore.
I guess it depends on how well you'd get by on the pay from the gaming company, and what the respective career opportunities are.

 

[NeferX]

Yeah its a tough one. I would get by on the pay, but it certainly wouldnt be a lavish lifestyle.

I am a New Zealander living in London, so travelling is important to me, both for recreation as well as being able to go home to see my family. The higher paid job would make this a lot easier.

I am also 30 now, so if I leave it too much longer, it may be hard to change career paths.

Argh, its tough! I have told them that I would let them know in a week, so I have some time to think it through.

Thanks for you comment.

 

[Philol]

Your getting married and starting a family, and you didn't hate what you did so I would say take the money, and just follow your interests in your free time.

 

[Scorekeeper]

Your getting married and starting a family, and you didn't hate what you did so I would say take the money, and just follow your interests in your free time.

What this guy said. If you had no family to support, I might advise you to take the fun. However, the responsible thing to do would be to take the money. After all, fun is what your free time (read: time to yourself) is for.