thinking of changing jobs

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-27-2003
thinking of changing jobs
2
Sat, 12-31-2005 - 1:27pm

I've finally gotten back on my feet after my divorce, and am ready to completely start my life over. I'm moving out of the one-bedroom crackerbox apartment I had to rent, and into a 2 BR townhouse with a basement for my cats. And I've hated my job for a while, so I'm ready to move on. The thing is, for what I do, I made good money, and am having a difficult time finding anything that pays what I'm making. (I'm basically a receptionist, and I make $13/hr, whereas most similar jobs in this city make $10/hr). I really really hate my job, but I'm wondering if the money is a tradeoff, if I'm to have the kind of life I need to have? I'll list my expenses below, and you can tell me if you think I'd be OK if I took a lower paying job or not...

$640 Rent (new place, includes water)
$50 Electric budget
$50 Gas budget
$45 Cable
$70 Cell phone, home phone (have to have it for Internet), and Internet
$100 Car Payment (and into savings for repairs after it's paid off)
$45 Car Insurance-liability only
$40 Contacts (have really bad eyes, disposables are $20/pair for 2 weeks wear!)
$25 Cat supplies (I have 3 cats!)
$65 Fuel
-----
$1130

Then I base my groceries/makeup/entertainment/savings/clothing/gifts, etc. needs on whatever's left over, depending on my salary. So on my $13/hr, that leaves $370/mth for all these things. Do you think I could afford to take a lower paying job, based on this small amount of left over money?

I'm starting to think that my sanity may depend on it, but I'm scared...

Avatar for cl_phocid
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-26-2003
Sat, 12-31-2005 - 1:45pm

Hmm - I'm thinking it will be really, really tight.

All my best,
Danni

iVillage Member
Registered: 12-12-2004
Sun, 01-01-2006 - 3:08am
HI, CJ. Well, it sounds like your New Year is full of exciting changes and some financial challenges. I do agree with Danni--your budget doesnt leave much wiggle room. l)Receptionist--can you market yourself as an administrative assistant? Do you have good computer skills, budgeting finesse, or stellar scheduling duties? It might be worth the effort to upgrade your resume. 2) Cats. Ah, yes. I have pet insurance and also go to a vet that has discounts on certain days of week--2-fer deals, coupons, etc. You might check around area vets for deals. You have a good plan of action. If you do decide to take another job with slightly lower salary, make sure there are other perks in the trade-off---better insurance, flexible hours, room for growth, etc. Whiz.