Newbie here, 38 and struggling with guilt from working too much

[Kdawn]

Quote:

Originally Posted by NgineER My wife is SAHM since we had our third kid five years ago. I have not quite made up for the reduction in salary (75% there), but the change in quality of life has been tremendously positive. The morning stress is gone and our life pace has decelerated substantially. It also made me think of ER and helped me discover this forum. We have since her quitting the rat race reduced our spending by at least 30%, reducing what we need when I quit.

Many ppl have shared the same feelings as you. They may have less money but their "quality" of life is much better. I'm non materialistic and have no issues cutting back. I'm very happy for you and your family, nice job!

[Katiek]

Sounds like you've come to the decision that you need to make some changes, but retiring completely may not be the right one. I changed jobs at one point for a better work/life balance (at a significant financial cost) but it was well worth it. I couldn't have kept up my old job for 20 years more. There are times this job is too much work, but it's not the constant pressure my old job was.

I think you're right to realize that lots can happen between now and when your husband would retire and relying on reaching that point without major changes may not be safe. Lots of women (and men) I know find themselves unexpectedly single through death or divorce, or have had to worry about serious disability or other illness.

But recognizing you need some change is an important first step and good luck finding a solution that gives you more time for your family and yourself.