The second was too brainless. I ended up with a better job in that same department and sometimes have to back up people with similar jobs during rush times–so glad that’s not always my job!

I also quit a job at which I could no longer improve. I was ringing up groceries and sacking as fast as I could imagine physically doing, and I still timed someone waiting 30 minutes from the time they got in the end of the line to the time they left. I found that unacceptable.

I learned that I want to be at least competent at any job (ideally I’m fabulous), but it doesn’t just depend on me; it also depends on the employer.

I also refused to apply for a job that paid more but involved answering the phone all the time because I knew I wouldn’t like it or be that good. Unfortunately, the person they hired quit during a hiring freeze, so I got to do that job anyway, in addition to mine, at my same old pay, for five months. But after that I got to go back to doing just my old fun job.

I never did get the job I first thought I wanted (teaching), but I learned that I enjoy having the kind of job that I can leave at work after 5:00 and the kind of job that has low stress. I’d much rather practice frugality than stress-reduction, prioritization of my social life, etc.

And now I think I know the job I really want (online course developer) and am training for and seeking that job.

And learned all but the last bit day one. In the end I found a better job but I had hand forced to resign and it was demoralizing.

In the Midwestern City, I had a job that paid well and had people working under me. I switched to my current job where there’s only 3 of us and it was a 25% paycut. But I am glad I took the job because it has been low stress, I work with some of the smartest people I know, I have the most understanding and perfect employer, and I have had a lot of hands-on experience that will help me in the future.

My philosophy is that everything happens for a reason and as long as you try your hardest, everything will work out in the end. Sometimes, that means making financial sacrifices. In the end, whatever your reasons are for declining or accepting a job offer, it will work out for the best.

After my previous experience I have made a decision that I will be making an informed and deeply thought out decision affecting my career for the next job. By turning down jobs I feel that I am taking control of my life. What good is a job that pays if you are miserable everyday?

Another job I should’ve turned down – my instincts were screaming NOOOOO – was an admin role in a small company. The boss was a jerk and the office manager was unhappy. I lasted 5 months and got headhunted to my current role, which I love. I ended up staying friends with the offfice manager and she’s still there, as unhappy was ever. Can’t do that to myself.

PS Great blog!

Mandy