Things to Consider When Starting to Work Part-Time
Yesterday, I wrote about my journey and reasonings that got me to work three days a week. I believe in this lifestyle, and recommend people to at least consider it if they can - it really is a life upgrade.
However, it comes with limitations and issues. Here are some things to take into account if you consider working-part time:
You'll earn less. You'll have more time, but less money to spend. If you can't take care of your needs AND save money for the future and for emergencies, consider working more than 60%, or even remain full-time. It's not worth it if you won't be able to take care of yourself now or later.
You'll earn a bit more than you think though - progressive taxation means that a 40% cut in your salary will become less than a 40% cut in what you get into your bank account.
When looking for a position, I don't look for just ones that are listed as part-time, as those almost don't exist in my profession. I look for a position, and, the first time I get to talk to someone, tell them about what I'm looking for, part-time wise. Some will refuse, some will agree. The more popular and sought-after your profession is, the more chances a place will be willing to settle and hire you part-time. In any case, this could open more options for you than just looking for listed part-time positions.
At least in some professions, the less days a week you'd look for, the harder it'll be to find. In my field, for example, it's easier to find an 80% position (four days a week) or someone who'll settle for 80%, than a 60% position.
You might limit your career options - the more strategic the position, the less chances you'll find it part-time. It's okay if you have a team of software developers with some of them working part-time, but that team's lead, the strategists, the decision makers - you'd usually want them around for the whole work-week.
Freelance might open more options for you - Some companies WILL outsource such strategic positions, especially if they're a project for a limited period of time. I'm not sure that's true for every industry, but in my line of work, that's how I found my most interesting projects.
Freelance is harder than being an employee. additional work on the business (finding clients, networking etc.), less job security, and less rights. It might (depending on your profession, talent and country) earn you more money though.
Free time can be a curse. It's your responsibility to make it a blessing - Find hobbies, be with your family, meet people, do chores. As a counter-example, I know that I have a tendency to watch TV as a default, and I might sink to it and regret it later. It sometimes takes an active decision to get up and do something that's good for me.
If going part-time is something you consider, and you have questions or just want to talk about it, feel free to email me.
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