Hey guys, I’ve been working retail for about 12 years. 40+ hours a week, nights, weekends and holidays. I recently started working at a job that pays roughly 4x my retail hours, is a salaried position with benefits. I typically work right around 3 hours a day or so on average, maybe 2-3 times a week.
I was so excited about the free time and freedom to buy cool things finally and live comfortably without many limitations, but I’m finding myself feeling guilty for not working as much as I used to, or not being able to decide what it is I’d like to play.
Has anyone else experienced this?
There’s two reasons to work - compensation (pay & benefits) & personal satisfaction. If this new job pays well and you find the work itself satisfying, then you’re 2 for 2. Enjoy it while it lasts. No reason to feel guilty.
OTOH, it’s not uncommon for newly retired people to feel at a bit of a loss for what to do with themselves, and that may be what you’re feeling. Even though you’re not actually retired, you’re effectively only working 1 day a week so it’s not much different. Think about taking up a hobby (photography, woodworking, etc) or possibly doing some volunteer work. Something other than just sitting in front of the computer/tablet/phone/TV all day.
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Perhaps consider doing some volunteer or community work since you’ll have a lot more free time on your hands.