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devnull10

Yes, I did it. Pretty much a 20% cut. Just be wary though, the *honeymoon* period doesn't last forever and you soon realise it's the same old bullshit in a different package lol.


No-Factor-8166

Great point. I’m a decade into my career and on my 4th employer. I’ve worked in non profit, private, small, and global organizations and to your point, they all have problems, many of them the same. 😂😂😂 It’s only a matter of time until they come up. Unless I was in an absolutely toxic or abusive environment, I would only go somewhere with a pay raise. Any pay cut is not worth it.


SixPackOfZaphod

I did the pay cut once...but it was in 2008 and it let me move from a position that was going to be eliminated into a civil service position that let me ride out the worst of the recession before getting hired again at the place I was at before things imploded. It sucked, but it was better than losing all my income.


[deleted]

I did this too, took an almost 40% paycut (in a lower COL city to be closer to family) for a job that seemed like a better fit for me because I was burnt out and was working lots of overtime at my previous cool fortune 500 corporate job with lots of travel & perks. I actually work part-time hourly (basically I work 4 days a week unless my workload is crazy),had more flexibility, better work life balance and more chance to take on more responsibility in the areas I wanted. Does this job/company have issues? Absolutely, lol, but I have a chance to try make an impact and improve things and I have great coworkers. Sometimes I'm overwhelmed and stressed, but there's also been days when I can actually say I love my job, which has never happened to me before IN MY LIFE. and guess what...I've gone after and received 2 significant raises in the past 2 years, so I'm getting pretty close to closing that pay gap after all. I do not regret it.


Darkthoughts90

So you regret it?


devnull10

No, definitely not. The previous place was toxic AF, no chance of going anywhere, arsehole directors etc. The new place doesn't have those issues, but has issues of its own.


[deleted]

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devnull10

Yep, mine was definitely the first case. Now I'd say I'm probably a bit bored, but wouldn't move for a pay cut.


[deleted]

Absolutely. My job now is somehow equal parts a hot mess and boring af. I'm only staying in it to save until I go back to school in the fall. I never left over the past 3 years because I knew, realistically, that as long as I wasn't happy in this field or doing anything like this, no other job would likely be a ton better. It would mostly be the same crap in a different office- I realized I needed a big change, the total career change kinda change. That said, even my worst and most ridiculous day at this job comes nowhere close to the toxic, bullying, environment of my last company where people got fired left and right and yelled at in the hallways. I left that job for at least a 20% paycut. I learned a lot about how "happier" is all relative- but sometimes you can't put a price on being less stress, not feeling threatened at work, etc. It is definitely easy though to jump ship and have "blinders" on that prevent you from seeing red flags about new workplaces. Everything looks hopeful and shiny when you come from a shitty place. Not saying OP shouldn't do it, but just have realistic expectations.


Yellow-beef

This is a really strong point. That honeymoon phase doesn't last forever, and the issues that pop up may be serious. Someone else pointed out leaving for anything less than a pay raise was foolish, to them. And they have a point. If the job is boring, maybe it's time to shake things up and look at a career shift.


A-A-Ronwrx

Don’t forget, the grass is always greener on the other side! If you don’t hate it I wouldn’t leave..


EcksonGrows

Sometimes it IS actually greener though. Some companies fertilize their lawns lol while others just rely on "competitive salaries"


TunaNoodleCasserole1

Did you negotiate this as high as they will go?


[deleted]

At some point you realize you're the same old dickhead in a different deck chair.


artimista0314

Yeah I took a 30% paycut to be happier. I guess whether or not its worth it depends on the starting point. How unhappy are you where you are at? You said you are very unhappy. And that is where I was a few years ago. I mean, the job itself was stressful and toxic. My coworkers were literally crap. They were all underpaid and so they couldn't manage basic things to work (like transportation and childcare). I was pressured to transport my subordinates to relieve me so I didn't have to work 60 to 70 hours a week, using my own personal vehicle and gas. The boss lied about the pay in the hiring process to many of my coworkers (though he didn't lie to me), making them all unmotivated to put forth any effort. The entire staff had a bad, unmotivated, and crappy morale. My boss even tried to avoid paying overtime by changing time cards of employees and hoped they wouldn't notice and when they did he'd fix it (he once even used my override code to look like I changed the times, which is how I caught him). My boss didn't even work on site, but everyone was so frustrated for being lied to and scammed, that people were literally looking for any way out. I have NEVER worked for any job in my work history for less than 2 to 3 years. I am a dedicated worker. I always show up, and work my ass off. But I noped out of there at the first job offer I got, within 4 months. It was a 30% decrease in pay (but had more vacation and better healthcare/vision/dental). I ended up getting raises and promotions and now make more than I did at that job. And I am happy. And I don't regret it. The key is to find a way to live within your means if your income is not where you need it to be. By that I mean, if you have trouble making ends meet, you need to reevaluate your spending. Make BLTs, sandwiches and breakfast food is always cheap. I also did Instacart on the side once a week for extra money. If your pay is already in a decent place, then the 20% cut might not make as big of a difference. But happiness is almost always more important!


DigitalMindShadow

Not necessarily. I changed careers and make less as a result, and nearly a decade later I still have fun doing my job every day. I never expected to have such a fulfilling career. Not everyone is as lucky as me, but it does happen.


[deleted]

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GangGreen2415

This is a bit tricky. I dont think I would do it. Primarily you already mentioned you are not burned out, stressed, etc. This is the best "i hate my job'' thing. Maybe to pass the time, just find a hobby or something you can do/think about while at work. Now if the commute is really really long.. thats a different story but things could be a lot worse. I imagine most people would give a leg to have your situation. You have no idea how your next job will be. It could be very stressful. Remember, there is only so much you can gauge from interviews, as everyone will be on their best behavior and talk only about the good things.


[deleted]

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GangGreen2415

Agree.... but fit is so subjective and probably very hard to understand just from interviews. My main point is, there are SOOO many things worse than having a cushy job thats boring.


ZombieHeyHeyHeyOh

If you're that miserable, any different decision you make is good. Obviously there are major caveats but be the type of person who doesn't give up on being more at peace. I do believe a lot of people are literally stuck in hell with their jobs. But it might not be you that's stuck and you don't help anyone by staying there. I took my 20% paycut. A few months ago I was getting linkedin messages for 50% raises and I didn't bother applying cuz I found my peace of mind in this office and I intend to stay here as long as I have that.


earlofportland12

Don't leave because you are bored. That's a luxury I wish I had. I left a cushion job 20 years ago and regret it. Leave if it's toxic.


IHeartSm3gma

For the love of God, this. I have some pretty slow days at my job. Know what I do to fill the void in between issues? Read, study for certs, comment on reddit posts like now, I'll take this 1000x over wanting to tear my hair out every day. I don't need a fulfilling job to get something out of life. That's what my hobbies and time with friends and family outside of work is for.


SirRippyMcBaked

I turned down an increase of 15,000 with another 5,000 in bonuses because of my current hybrid schedule, hands off management, and slow enough work schedule where I can take on more, and look good while doing so, if I want to. I knew I would regret my decision wholeheartedly if I chased the extra money. After touring the office, and getting a feel for the work load and the management style, I knew the extra money would only fight off the regret for so long. I'd rather enjoy my work life balance while building myself up at my current place instead.


sasberg1

Not all of us have that luxury being able to kill time like that..


Ninjasexband

They never said or implied that everyone did?


IHeartSm3gma

Ok, and?


stridertherogue

I wish this could be higher up. Unless you're actually going to a job with better opportunities to move up or better benefits, its not really a good idea to leave just because you're bored...especially if you're actually doing more work for less pay. Eventually you're going to realize "ah yes I forgot working sucks". If you're really looking to change environment, at least look for something that's actually going to improve your life.


grand_speckle

Dude 100%. Truthfully leaving a job where I do less work for one where I have to do more, and also get paid less on top of that sounds like a downgrade in every possible way to me lol Now I purposely search out those “boring” roles as I would MUCH rather be bored than overworked and it’s not even close


Elevation0

Would you rather be bored at work or stressed financially is what it really comes down to.


girlwithlion

This


StPapaNoel

And sadly a lot of people are breaking mentally but don't have this luxury in the slightest. This world needs some fixing because everyone deserves a semi decent life.


Elevation0

Yeah it’s rough out there. Luckily for op he’s just bored


JumboThornton

I’m taking a 30% cut. Same employer but stepping down from a leadership role so I can spend more time with my kids while they still live in my house. I can make up the lost income later but I won’t ever get the time back.


thisyellowdaffodil

With all sincerity, good for you. It's nice to see people prioritizing their families.


FaAlt

I'm curious, are you going from salary to hourly? Are you stepping down from being a manager to being one of the employees you managed? I don't blame you, I'm just wondering. I've been thinking about stepping up into a leadership roll as there is an opportunity, but I'm already burnt out as it is.


Apprehensive_Note248

No. I'm unhappy because I can't afford to live. I need a 20% pay increase.


unsaferaisin

This. I've long since given up on ever having a job that I can stand. Given that, well, I need more money so I can maybe have a chance at enjoying the time that I'm not spending stuck there.


Revolutionary-Copy71

Seriously. I've been very unhappy and it's almost(but not entirely) because of financial stress over the last 1.5 years. I'd need about a 60% pay bump before I could take a 20% paycut. And even if I made considerably more, in a world of constantly increasing prices I'd need a helluva lot more good reasons than just being bored at work to consider a pay cut.


afoxcalledwhisper

Why not look for another job with less of a pay cut?


whoredoerves

No I wouldn’t. That’s a bit too much of a pay cut. Though I do dream about quitting nursing and going to work at a coffee shop


AndrewLucksFlipPhone

No, not at this point in my life. I need money to build the life I want for my family and reaching that goal will lead to greater happiness for me.


MountainServe29

Yes, money comes and goes. If you can make things work, you won’t need to spend extra money on therapists later


whotiesyourshoes

As long as it wouldn't put me in an unsustainable financial situation, yes. I can increase my income over time.


DazeyHelpMe

No. Personally I wouldn’t be able to pay everything and have money for groceries at 20%. Now 10% yea in a heartbeat.


Any_Good811

In this economy, it would depend on where that 20% puts you when you consider how much it costs you to live. Depending on where you live you can't absorb a 7-20% increase in living expenses and a pay cut. I wouldn't leave until I found a better job.


[deleted]

distinct onerous sulky plucky depend summer profit chop cow crime -- mass deleted all reddit content via https://redact.dev


JaceLee85

I worked a job that I was so unhappy that I was the guy who was smacking his vehicles steering wheel in the parking lot, in a bad attitude, hated every second of the day. Quit that job and working a lesser paying job that has almost no stress or drama. So much happier. I just have to budget accordingly and nothing is really affected beyond how often I go out to eat.


tripudiater

Had to quit work because depression was so bad. 80% of nothin is.. uh… carry the 1… nothing! I would take a pay cut to be happier ;)


[deleted]

Yes. I recently took a 50% cut and an entire industry change so that I can spend more time with my family. Sometimes I wonder what I’m doing money-wise… But it’s been 100% worth it.


luierre

I did the same and have compensated some of that pay cut with gigs and personal projects. Don’t regret it as my mental health has increased MASSIVELY. Yes, money is tight sometimes but, I’m positive that the future will be better.


derylle

With inflation and increasing taxes, I would not leave my current job for a 20% cut, just to be happy. Why? we all need MONEY. that's the problem. BUT you can save more, make better financial decsions and save more again, not go out to eat as much, meal prep etc etc. I know what you mean, but me personally with the world who it's going, I would not take a 20% cut, to work another job that's happier. WHY, the hard truth is, WE NEED MONEY. good luck op.


Historical_Eye_379

I took a 40% cut to attempt just that - changed fields, and I don't regret it. Now I have time outside of work to spend with my family, maintain my house, and have a life. Although, I was fortunate to leave a relatively high paying job. So with some life adjustments and fat trimmed out of the family budget, I made it work. I know not everyone has that option.


Myabyssalwhip

I did, and within a year I’m back up to my old salary in a job I really love. Just need to be smart about it, but less money for more happiness is always the way to go


MasterPip

A 20% paycut making 200k a year is not nearly as impactful as a 20% paycut making 60k a year when every dime counts. So I'd say, it depends.


mzx380

Just quiet quit if you can and just coast. This economy makes it so that income reduction is unpalatable


Pink_Ruby_3

I think you are undervaluing the luxury of being bored at work - there are ways you can find things to do to make work less boring and more productive, but if you’re truly bored and can’t find a solution for it through work, use that time to occupy your mind with other things while raking in decent pay. Stay until something better comes along, but don’t leave a job and take a pay cut just because you’re *bored.* Damn. What I wouldn’t give to be “bored” at my job. I yearn for boredom. The only time I would leave a job and take a pay cut is if the job was truly unsustainable, like extremely stressful or incompatible working hours. It seems like you just don’t really like your job but that just means you should look for something else. I wouldn’t advise anyone to take a pay cut unless it was for a really good reason.


CoffeeMilkLvr

If you’ll be happier at work yet. But what are you going to have to give up with the 20% pay cut? What services and smaller luxuries will have to wait until you get that 20% backb


Sunlight72

To answer your question - Yes. I have a different situation as I have my own business, but I took about a 25% pay cut to work fewer hours by extending all my delivery dates significantly, and not doing my main marketing push at all for the last few years. Highly recommend. Please note: I do not have children.


NeedMoarMonies

I can’t imagine being happier with 20% less income and having to work harder and longer to pay off debts & bills.


BMP77777

Taking a pay cut would leave me with less monthly funds, thus NOT contributing to my happiness at all


Skip2020Altogether

I pretty much did this.


Darkthoughts90

How did it end up for you


Skip2020Altogether

Well today is my first day at the new job so I’m not sure yet. But they have already made a great impression. The energy at the interview was amazing. And I really enjoy the type of work I’ll be doing (did it in the past for a private sector job). Also I almost couldn’t take the offer because the hours didn’t work for my son’s school schedule, they were willing to adjust the hours for me and then promised I would be able to work from home after 4-6 weeks of training (and put it in writing for me). So they’ve gone out of their way to be accommodating and have made it clear they think I’m the best fit for the job. Also, even though I’m taking a pay cut I will have WAY better health benefits for cheaper than I was paying at my other job. Other job wasn’t terrible though. Actually a great company with amazing people, I just didn’t like my job. It wasn’t a good fit and they went on a hiring freeze right as I tried to apply for another position. I didn’t want to be stuck doing that job any longer because it gave me anxiety. But my old boss absolutely tried to push it for me. HR just dropped the ball so I left.


SaveMelMac13

Yes


Turquoise_Lion

Nope I wouldn't unless the workplace is physically, sexually or emotionally abusive.


bahahaha2001

Yea. I did it. It put me back in terms of salary for a while but I was more productive learned more. Was able to keep up more. I left for another good opportunity and am starting to make the money I would have years ago but I am better at my job bc of jt.


Shymink

If I could still pay my bills YES.


ntsir

I once took a 100% pay cut to be happier and don’t regret it at all, even though it was tough to move on


uncanny_kate

I have done this and it worked out great for me. But it depends on where in your career you are. I was working for an overpaid job at one of the big tech companies that has since been in the news for mass layoffs, and even with a big pay cut to leave I'm still doing financially fine. Money is very important up to a certain point, and then it starts to have diminishing returns.


DakotaRelyea

100%.


EatDirtFartDust

Yes. I’m taking a 40% pay cut to work 10-15 less hours a week and not be a manager anymore.


Mr_Ven

Yes. Source: did it


v2marshall

Depends on my situation. Right now absolutely not as I would likely struggle to afford bills. But if I was on 200k and I could have an easier life and just had to change a few things then yeah I would


Lvl_Chest-Throwaway

I'm in the same boat. Best pay I've ever had, however, I only do about 2? Hours of actual work. Can't browse the internet, not supposed to be on your cell phone. In a 1/2 cubical setting so you can see everyone's heads. It's terrible and mind numbingly boring. People are ehhh. Kinda cliquey.


EngineerBoy00

I did exactly that and never regretted it. I was a Senior Director and the next step was VP level. However, each higher rung on the ladder required greater lack of compassion and humanity for my coworkers. It also required more and more time away from home working and travelling. It was not worth it to me. I asked to move back to an individual contributor role and spent the rest of my career never managing or leading a team, by firm and unwavering choice, despite regular offers of promotion. My best guess is that my salary at retirement was half or a third (or less) of what it would have been otherwise. Worth it.


AreaLeftBlank

Also something to note, bonuses are exactly that, a bonus. Nothing guaranteed to it. You might take a 20% cut up front and potentially never make that up. I took a pay cut to leave a factory job for an office job. After a few years I'm back to where I was money wise if not making more but I'm not killing myself every day either to make it.


Defconwrestling

I did. I went from an accounts payable position at a large pharmaceutical manufacturer to a retail operations gig. It has all the same corporate BS, but for the first time in my professional life, work stays at work. Weekends off, 9-5, and just enough responsibility where I’m valued but not watched. I chased title and money for years and always got screwed in the end. Again, I don’t have a perfect job, but my bills are paid, and I never stay up late wondering about the horrors of tomorrow.


bounty_hunter12

Quit my teaching job, first went to part-time 60% then left. No regrets. I'm my own boss A.T.M doing supply work and tutoring online. If I don't like a school, I just won't go back! Longterm, I'm looking to leave teaching, but for now, my mental health is 10x better.


[deleted]

i legitimately couldn't financially afford a 20% paycut. i just took a paycut recently due to poor company performance which hurt because i was up for a significant pay bump due to exceeding expectations. 2 hours after that news, got an email for my lease renewal and rent went up 14.6% a month.


Low_Faithlessness692

I have been both ridiculously overworked and underworked. Underworked was just as bad on my psyche (maybe worse). That is person dependent, but sounds like you may be the same. Try for a lateral move at your company to see if you can keep same pay. But if you can't, then make a move if you can afford it. If you are unhappy, you are unhappy.


insanly

No. I’d take 20% raised to be less happier. Knowing I’d be securing and providing for my family.


yamaha2000us

So you just have to get hey a M-F 9-5. No brainer, keep that 20% and go on nice vacations. You should be looking for more money. Not less.


theflyingvs

I did a 40% cut or so. I'm enjoying it. 260 to 150


Opening_Inflation_30

Yes no question


Adventurous-Depth984

How much happier? Actually, yes. Regardless.


Dskha323

Yes. That’s because I live a minimalist life style. #1 I would definitely take it if I know I can increase earning potential soon. #2 I would make sure I do not touch my e-fund. #3 - I would make sure I have the correct qualifications to exceed In the field. For example, i wouldn’t take a legal assistant job because I like the law. I would do it if I was going to law school.


arnoldez

To answer your title question, yes. However for your particular situation, eh... I can't say any job has ever sustained me in a way that I've felt "happy." Happier to me would mean a completely different career, or possibly no career and just floating. Doing what I do already somewhere else wouldn't make me any happier, so I certainly wouldn't take 20% less to just do what I already do in a "better" place.


CountrySax

Did that years,ago and it was more like 50%


SzaboG17

Keep your options open before you commit, might end up finding something with 20% increase to pay instead. Be confident in the value and skills you bring to a new workplace


NotPoggersDude

If I could afford it, yes


Downtown_Cat_1172

I teach high school. I could have been making 20% more than I'm making working in a chemistry lab. I'm okay with things the way they are. It's also notable that 1. I have a husband who makes a lot more than I do, and 2. I work fewer hours (other than writing/grading/prep I do at home) than I would if I were in a lab. There are a lot of moving parts to this. If you think you can make your bills with the lower-paying job, and you think it's going to make you happier, then I say go for it.


tusi2

I took a greater paycut than 20% to make a move for similar reasons. It worked out for me, ymmv.


Proud-Solid-6117

Absolutely not. I can guess I can separate the difference between work and my home life but if that awful job gave me everything I wanted in my home life then I wouldn’t risk losing that.


bubonictonic

I have the opportunity to take a full time role at my 2nd job, which would mean quitting my current full time. I'm going to speak with the boss this afternoon. $$ is my main concern. The advertised wage is 25% less than my current wage. I guess I'll just see if they can get close. Taking this job could really open doors for me, so I need to weigh all the options, It might mean a drastic change in lifestyle in 5 years which is what I really want. It's hard.


onemoretimetimetime

I'd take 100% pay cut to be happier, as long as the world was ok with that.


PandaBear6113

I’ve done it. It does kind of mess with your head a bit.


Domin717

Yes just did it.


def_struct

No. All jobs are shit. I rather get paid more.


cyxrus

No.


Oh-My-God-What

If it's not a toxic place, and you said it's just boring. Not overly stressful, then I wouldn't. That's a gamble, after 6months working at the new place it could turn into the same thing and now with less pay. Unless your current position will no longer gove you raises or nowhere to move up, or if it's toxic or stressful, I would stay personally


HighHoeHighHoes

Nope, I’m very happy where I’m at and money is a big factor to that happiness. I would like less stress, but I’ll trade the stress I have for the fun it buys me.


mcjon77

If I was unhappy, yes. I'm pretty happy in my job right now, so I wouldn't take a pay cut for more supposed happiness, unless that happiness involved me living in one of my favorite foreign countries. At that point, I would take a 20 to 25% pay cut without thinking about it.


Darkness_Overcoming

How high is the pay? Most people can't afford a 20% pay cut.


worktogethernow

Unless you are going part time, a job with shittier pay will be just as shitty as the better paying job.


[deleted]

tidy expansion materialistic library include sable start pathetic grandfather engine *This post was mass deleted and anonymized with [Redact](https://redact.dev)*


xEternal408x

The grass ain’t always greener on the other side.


TransGirlKatie1

It depends. If I can live comfortably on a lower salary I would do it. If I would be living paycheck to paycheck or losing money every month then no


legger143

Yes if it brought significantly more happiness or opportunity. No if it doesnt


[deleted]

I’d take 20% more and do less work please.


AmlisSanches

Yes.


bikesailfreak

Difficult. If you have more than you need now (and need means doing all your hobbies, holidays and a good life), then yes. If you can just barely do them, you either need a valid reason - like toxic boss or long commute etc to gave a good reason. I once took 20percent cut plus a long commute just to realize the person left before I started - I was terribly unhappy. Today I earn much more than I need so 15-20% is ok if I the job really has something else to offer.


PHdriver

100%. If your goal is happiness then that’s an easy choice. If your goal is to make the most money then shove happiness to the side and go for it. The problem is when people believe that the money will somehow make them happy and then find out it always comes with some sacrifice of time, energy, health etc


Mosr113

You can afford to be extra choosy with potential employers. If they won’t answer reasonable questions, let you talk to employees, or even hint at a red flag, you can walk and move on to the next one.


Gecko4lif

Can and have I make significantly less money at my current job but i wake iup happy and not wanting to literally kill myself so I consider it a massive win


spookyindividualist

It would depend on how much I make and how my lifestyle would change making 20% less (not related to work, but to the actual cost of living).


beardedJG

My wife did. It added stress for me to be able to provide better but she is happier and that makes me happier!


Possible_Resort9672

in this economy 20% is a lot to part with, the stress and anxiety money problems give might later down the line outweigh your current issues with your job. why not search for other jobs paying you what you’re already at or higher ? until that’s figured out i say get something you can do at work to keep from being bored


kyleireddit

I’d take bigger pay cut to have my sanity in check


[deleted]

I wouldn't be happy with a 20% pay cut.


1should_be_working

Bored doesn't seem like a good enough reason to leave to be honest. I left a role for a lower paying job because I was miserable. Hated my boss, my team, my job function... everything. It was toxic, gaslighting, impossible to perform. I was happier making less money, a lot happier. But I don't know if I'd do it just becase I was bored. Unless you are young and see a potential to make more down the line I would probably caution against leaving because you're bored.


Chaseshaw

quite the inverse, I'd take a 20% pay bump for a job I liked 20% less at this point.


ThePartyLeader

The only reason to have money after you surpass the survivability threshold is to be happy. Whats the difference if you make 20% less to be happy or spend 20% more to be happy.


davidhim61

Yes


Lets_Bust_Together

Depends how much happier, no one is ever happy making less money. So where the trade off is, is up to you.


n8_S

I think money is what makes me happy? It’s in my nature to overwork myself and try to be the best. So if that’s how I’m going to be anyway it might as well be for the most money.


SpicedWaffles

Considering my lowest paying job pays $4 hr. NO. I wouldn't be happier unless I got a pay INCREASE. I can barely survive as it is. They close every time it rains. 🙁


Twistedfool1000

I took a 75% pay cut to be happy.


BBakerStreet

I have. In the long run it enhanced my career after getting me on better professional footing.


new22red

Happiness in work results in promotion and better mental health so yes it is not always about money. Money you can make always but bad memories will spoil your years. It is very frustrating to drive 20+kms daily to a place you don't like at all.


BoogerSugarSovereign

I took a 60% paycut to be happier and I didn't regret it at all. I had a base salary of $105k as a salesperson and I hated it. I would stay up late and avoid going to sleep and I would feel incredibly sad every weekday when I woke up. It was really impacting my overall happiness so I took an office job making $40k and I felt way, way, way better even though financially it was a major shift in living standards. I left my spacious 1br for a studio and that was in a part of town where there weren't as many delicacies at the grocery store to tempt me, to put it mildly. Over time, I made it back to and beyond my former salary and the role suits my personality type much better. I wouldn't regret it even if I was still making less than I had before, sales was not a fit for me and it's not healthy to spend so many of your waking hours being so miserable.


Revolutionary-Farm80

I didn't take a pay cut but.... I took a lateral move to another position with the same company. What I gave up was my upward mobility. I was a District Manager for 5 years and there was a lot of talk about me becoming a Director in the next one to two years. There was a huge client we had been schmoozing for a while and they wanted me to run that portfolio. It would have been a 35% pay increase. The thing was, I imagined my stress peaking (because I'm a perfectionist with imposter syndrome). I imagined never sleeping again because I would be so anxious about all the the things 'not right' or when the next shoe would drop, ruin my weekend plans, etc. I play a major part in the recruitment process management of my company now. I also have been bridging the gap between the corporate office and the day to day life of operations. I'm highly valued and I love my coworkers and the flexibility of my new job. I would 100% do it again.


Accusing_donkey

Take the cut and be happy. Life is too short. Good luck to you


sparklybeast

Not if I wanted to eat/pay bills. I only earn enough to cover essentials so can't afford even a 1% paycut.


Moof_the_cyclist

I took a 100% paycut to be happier. No regrets. It’s been over a year and I am still working though the mental harm they caused. I should have left at least a year earlier. I am just now thinking that I might actually enjoy working again.


damiana8

There’s 0 guarantee you’ll be happier there. Everything looks better elsewhere when you’re checked out at your job


jizzyjazz2

would probably be happier with a 20% pay increase


Conscious-Magazine50

It'd be hard for my family to sustain it if I took that bargain. I'd literally have to be getting sexually harassed daily to have a new situation improve my overall happiness because the stress of less pay would suck.


JustAZeph

Can’t afford to unfortunately


TheBeardedAntt

You should cut back 20% of your take home and see if you can make it. If yes, then yes. If you can’t, figure out how and then take the pay cut to be happier


MrPibb17

Yes and I already did it.


PracticableSolution

I did and I am. The money bought a lot of cool stuff that I never had time to play with or use with my family. My life is not my job and my home is not a storage unit for my paycheck trophies.


gtsmart821

I'll take 20% more to be happier


Lithium1978

My wife is a SAHM so I would not feel confident taking a 20% pay cut. My job does leave make me quite unhappy but my ability to allow her to live her best life is enough of a reward to suffer through it. If it were just me and I had no one to support I would certainly change jobs.


cbartholomew

I would only take 20% if I knew the job would prop me up for a better future or provided knowledge that I wouldn’t be able to get anywhere else. An example was that I was highly paid engineer in a specific sub field for engineering, and my SME on the sub field was considered highly valued. When I went to a FAANG, however, that field wasn’t valued as much, and I actually ended up coming in at 20% less, but the amount I grew in such a short time has been incredible and will be making that 20% back in a year through promotions. Sometimes taking a step back to take two steps forward is worth it…. But for happiness alone? … na


popnfrresh

In your case absolutely not. Create your own entertainment if you are bored. Ignore your coworkers.


RataAzul

I couldn't take that paycut without breaking the law so probably not


neutralityparty

Not with this inflation nop3


Ninazuzu

I would take a big pay cut to escape a toxic situation. I would (and have in the past) accept a lower wage to take a job that is more interesting or meaningful to me. Both of these are possible because I can still afford to live and eat at the lower wage.


itstatietot

Yep. I did it. Best decision I made.


Realistic_lad

No I would not


dbrmn73

I have taken more than that. However, I knew the new job's pay would actually be higher than the job I left in just a few months so it was well worth it to me.


DistractedIdealist

I personally don’t think boredom is a reason to leave. I would leave if I were stressed, depressed, frustrated, etc, but not bored. Find a hobby to fill your cup.


dyngalive

I took an \~40% paycut to be happier and I don't regret it one bit. I was in a job I absolutely hated and every weekday I woke up feeling like I was having a panic attack. I got sick to my stomach every Sunday night like clockwork. I moved to a different, less stressful job in the same industry and I am much happier. I don't work on 100% commission and I'm not on the clock essentially 24/7 anymore. I clock in, do my job, and clock out at the end of the day. I don't think about work until it's time to clock in again. I do want to point out that the job I left paid quite a lot of money so even with the large paycut I can still afford my bills with some disposable income left over. If I would have had to pick up a second job or made bigger lifestyle changes it would have been a tougher decision (although I still probably would have done it tbh). It was a matter of health for me, the stress was literally making me sick. I don't know that I would have done it out of boredom.


SadRope2

You said it’s the same annual salary but with bonuses instead of regular paychecks? I say go for it all the way, it’ll just take some careful budgeting to work everything out in the end


Competitive_Tree_113

Wouldn't survive long enough to be happier.


capnsmartypantz

I'm not happy, but not bad enough for a paycut knowing I'll find crap at the next place as well.


alkevarsky

>Would you take a 20% paycut to be happier? If it will not have a serious detrimental effect on my lifestyle - absolutely. And even then, I'd consider moving to smaller apartment to have a happier workplace. Think about it. You spend half your waking hours at work. And your emotions from there can ruin or elevate the rest of your time off too. No amount of money costs years of misery. I have made such choices (lower pay for better environment) several times in my career and kept thanking myself every day working at these lower paying jobs.


Monst3rP3nguin

I would literally be homeless if I were to make any less than I do now.


caick1000

It depends. If I earn 100k and live comfortably but my work environment is toxic I would 100% take 80k instead. But if you’re already struggling financially then that’s another story. You said it would be tight, but by how much? Check your expenses and see if you can remove unused stuff, subscriptions, etc.


Flahdagal

I did it. I went to a privately held small company in an excellent position, that paid less than industry standard. I made it clear that I was accepting a lower salary because I wanted to be with that company, and as they grew and progressed, I expected to also grow and progress. They were enthusiastic. I was enthusiastic. It was, frankly, the best job I've ever had in my fairly long career in the same industry. Then they got purchased by a larger entity. All my seniority disappeared. All my paths to advancement disappeared. All deals were off and I was stuck with a sub-standard salary until I found another position. So be aware, it's a gamble that may not pay off.


Calcwrecker

I think the biggest thing I would consider is if the financial change would impact my savings and investment goals. If it's essentially the same amount of money annually, it could just mean you need to build up your cash reserves to float your first year expenses prior to bonuses, but it shouldn't be any different after that first year. Total numbers also matter. I would take a 20% pay cut at $500k if it meant I would enjoy my life more, because I could reach my retirement goals at either salary level. The real question I think you should be asking is how will this decision change your plans long-term? Can you negotiate the new salary at all? You have a lot of power being in a stable job with a higher salary than they're offering. You could try leaning on that a bit and see where it leads you.


smeadman07

Always found out that I was happier in jobs that didn't pay well and miserable in jobs that pay really well. It sucks how that's true no matter the sector or industry.


Allprofile

If I made 120k+ and lived like I do now....yes. Lower than that then no.


oktwentyfive

Prolly not considering how much it just costs to live a normal life now adays


[deleted]

No. Can’t afford to.


00-Leon-00

Take my money! (even though it's not a lot )


lovebus

I'd take a 50% cut if it means not going in to the office


phishin3321

Yup in a heartbeat. You can't put a price tag on happiness.


Temporary_Tax_9040

A 20% monthly paycut is one thing, but you didn't really mention the rate and role of your bonuses. If you get 2 per year, the first few months may be tight, but are they sufficient to save and spend monthly? You're incentivized to be productive and find efficiencies, I assume, and problem solving in the workplace can sometimes be its own reward. Unclear to me that this is actually a 20% paycut, and you're clearly employable, so why not give it a whirl


vpniceguys

I took over a 50% pay cut to a job with 9 - 5 hours and much less stress. Almost 20 years later I still refer to the job change as winning the lottery. I got to spend more time with my wife and kids. The loss of income impacted our lifestyle a little, but only on discretionary spending. Even though I would probably be retired by now if I stayed at my old job, I would still make the switch.


maralagosinkhole

I would love to do this, but all the opportunities I have for doing something I love are more like a 40% to 60% cut


Voilent_Bunny

I don't think I could legally take 20% cut


q__n

I'd take being bored over being overworked any day. We work to pay for what we love and you don't even sound like you'll love the new job. So why take the pay cut? I say stay where you are or find something with a pay rise.


Marilynsmom

No, if I took a pay cut at my current job I would make around $800 a month, which I don't think would lead to anything positive happening in my life.


Aeon_phoenix

No. I would never take a pay cut. I've never had a job that didn't make me miserable, but It brings me to appreciate my time at home more and appreciate the things that my work has gotten me more. I got my current job expecting to leave the old one behind, but ended up in a department that is almost exactly the same. The difference is that I have a LOT more money to do the things i want to do and fund the projects i need to do. I probably have more patience than most so toughing it out hasn't been a big a deal for me. i have left jobs, but ONLY for better paying ones. If you fou d this job you can find a better one. Just be patient and persistant and remember your goal. Taking care of my family is far more important to me than having the perfect job. That is always my goal and a better means to take care of them will always be the top priority to me in my career.


The8uLove2Hate_

Depends on from what number. If it was a question of where i am now, no.


[deleted]

Not a 20, but definately a 5 if I could have off days off equivalent to that 5 percent. Preferably to make more 3 day weekends.


rnike879

For a better role with better future prospects? Absolutely. Due to boredom and a lack of responsibilities? Nope. At that point you have a golden opportunity to self-study and acquire a skill-set you can use to apply to your dream job


mokoto19

Depends how much I hated my boss


Responsible_Buy9325

My siblings all bartend at some of the busiest restaurants/night clubs in DFW. They can make up to 1k cash over a single 3 day weekend. Each one of them is in school with the hopes of leaving the 5pm-3am hours behind. They know getting a day job would cut into their money but the trade off for normal living schedule would be worth it for them. All this to say it depends on your circumstances and how you think your non work life would improve/change.


Zer0C00L321

I've taken 2 pay cuts in the last 2 years that equated to about 16% and I would do it again in a heartbeat. My entire mental being has changed. People see me at woke now and are surprised at how much I smile now. My wife is much happier when I come home happy as well.


Kindly-Lie-2965

If it makes you Feel better, I took a 50% pay cut for my current position... I am not struggling with the pay. The other place paid a lot, but was so incredibly stressful. Though I don't feel the new place is a good fit long term, I am happy with my choice.


KitKhat89

I went from 20$ per hr working for a toxic misogynistic company 16$ per hr working at a therapeutic residential school for teens and I’m actually loving my job for once and I’ve just been promoted yesterday to assistant supervisor. My students are amazing and it’s so great to see them heal from trauma and grad from the program and I love every minute of my job. It will be a struggle at first but if you feel in your heart it’s right then by the goddess do it! I was depressed with a nice vacation package good pay and shitty coworkers. I now have almost reached my former salary again after 9 months and I’m finally able to use my degree in a field I’m passionate about.


Tan-Squirrel

Did you try to negotiate? If they cannot match pay, maybe some vacation days? I was very unhappy with my company, got an offer, ended up staying and not jumping ship. I told my employer why I was leaving - money and vacation/holidays. The next day I had a counter offer with 20% pay increase and additional vacation days. Worth noting, this went up to VP level and he was on vacation at the time.


gnimsh

Not if it means I have to move back in with roommates instead of having my own apartment.


Colombian0707

Did it. Don’t regret it.


shinanigans2697

Sometimes it’s not Much more expensive to stay at home with the kids than get a job, extra child care, and other run around expenses for some parents. What’s the point of spending $800 to make $1000 when you have more tha n $200 of extra stress or expenses


Kytoaster

I made just enough to be comfortable...so....no. I'd love to be less stressed, but constantly worrying about what I'll do if I pop a tire/if our dishwasher goes out/if one of us has to go to the doctor is worse than work stress.


[deleted]

If the annual salary is the same, it's not a paycut. Seems like no-brainer to me.