Returning to work between babies - take on management promotion (stress) or coast as an IC?
My teams manager position is being posted for competition when I am returning to work from mat leave. I have a good chance at getting it and it’s something I previously wanted. I’m planning on trying for a second baby, hoping to go on mat leave again within 6-12 months of returning.
I am feeling very mixed feelings and would love to hear other people’s experiences/thoughts.
- I’m not sure I want more responsibility/stress while also starting my family.
- I’m not sure if I want to be a people manager instead of an independent contributor. I like doing “the work” that we do and I’m not sure if I’ll actually enjoy coaching and stake holder management aspects of the job.
- I’m partly worried I only wanted this role because of ego and fear of rejection. My biggest competition is someone who I trained after me. I worry I am second guessing applying because I’m actually just afraid of the shame/embarrassment I’ll feel if I don’t get it?
I know you can’t answer these questions for me but I’m wondering if any of you have felt this way and what you did.
We’re doing okay financially but the 10k pay bump would be valuable once we have 2 in daycare. The opportunity for pay raise or promotion may not happen again for a long time as there is no level above me that isn’t this management position (or higher).
Thank you!