Should I be well-paid but away from home and friends?
Asked by DJ
I'm a mid career professional with oilfield experience. I recently quit a good job in Houston because of excesive traveling, stress and not doing what I love to do at work. I accepted a job in the electronics industry in Atlanta, where familiy and most friends live. It took me a long time to find this new job because of Atlanta's weak job market. I make 20% less money in this new job, long-term prospects and opportunities for growth are not so promissing, but this new job has much less stress, less traveling, more time to spend with family and doing what I like in my field. I've been here 6 months only. I continue to worry about the more money and benefits I could make in Houston's oilfield industry, where the job market is really good. Anyway, should I try to return to the oilfield industry looking for a better pay, better prospects but being away from friends, close relatives and knowing that this industry can bust again? or should I stay in my new low-stress job making less? Thanks!

Best Answer:
We can not answer that question for you. I would not even attempt to. That is a decission you alone will have to make. Personally, I think there are more ways to make money than through a pay check if money is that important to you.

I agree. You are the only one who can make that decision. What means the most to you?
Answered by blue

Stress can ruin your life if you let it. no one can see inside your head,only you.The question is a good one.Sometimes stress in a job can give you nervers break down,and laid off when you return to work.If your young and have the few years to spare,and money is what you need ,goback to TEXAS. the oil fields will still be there,but a bust hasto come.I worked the oil fields in oklahoma till the bust,and me and hundred of others just picked and moved leavin g the town back to farm town again stay in your stress free job and keep the family happy i could go on and on,but it's you that hasto decide. I do wish the very best,once again Okla. is having a little boom.Even now you can see oil riggs in fields weeds growing up high around riggs laid down.I made lots of money,and spent it like it was going to last forever.when it went bust,all i had was a last pay check. I lived in fear of climbing up the rig to the crows nest.I coulden't sleep at night and the stress drove me drinking. I do wish you and your family well and happy. I do respect your question as being honest.
Answered by phillip w

What does your family think ? In particular your wife ? And why do you have trouble making new friends in Houston ? Have you made some effort--or is your work too demanding ? And could your family join you there ? The extra money it seems could provide for them----and if they are hesitant you could tell them it is only temporary ! Houston is a bit hot but it's not a bad town for families . There are overseas jobs where you can make double your domestic salary with oilfield experience ---have your coworkers ever talked this over with you ? Some places where I have worked in the Mideast will even provide housing for your family --it is worth looking into--to be alone there is not so good tho.. I wouldn't recommend that --except on a short term basis. If you'll pardon my saying this you seem to be a bit immature or perhaps you are lacking in self-confidence ? If this is so and you do return to Houston---when you are downtown go to the Holy Cross Chapel where they have services for Business Men during the week ---it is a good place for Meditation ! My brother who co-founded the Chapel is a Monsignor and he is there quite often---he might be able to help you find friends there -----he may know some of your coworkers !--doesn't matter if you're not Catholic ! Good luck and cut the stress---it's not good for your heart---you sound like a good man and you are providing for your family better than most---time to start looking after yourself ! Good luck and God bless !
Answered by ytellu