Job Discussion Forums

[dagi]

Just wondering how many of you did this, to start all over again. I moved countries ten years ago and now have a decent job at a very nice school. Pay is nice, promising future, pension funds, social security, nice appartment, good social life, etc. If things don't turn inot a desaster I will be offered a permanent contract next school year, which means I can stay with the school as long as I want. Thanks to the excellent teacher's union and the teacher shortage I am looking at a bright future

But....my feet have been itching for years and this year I have finally made up my mind and chose a country where I'd love to go. The down side is that I would have to leave everything behind and start all over again. Probably working for low pay, freelance, temporary contracts, no social security, a.s.o.

Who's left the comfort zone and was it worthwhile?

[Glenski]

I was essentially laid off in late 1997, so I decided to come to Japan and test the waters. Didn't intend for this to last so long, and I hope to return to my previous career, but no definite plans just yet. Got married while in Japan, still living there, and I'm moving up in salary every year.

[ls650]

I worked in IT for 13 years. I became very bored with it and left. I enjoy teaching immensely (well, most days...) and prefer what I'm doing now.

I have a pretty secure TEFL job now and could build a good life for myself here... but I also understand the desire to push on and try a new location. The trouble is that if you keep doing that, what will you do for money in your retirement?

[Jizzo T. Clown]

Retirement is a big issue in this line of work. Talk to Edward Jones, perhaps? It's a can of worms that should be opened.

I suppose you could transfer money from overseas into a savings account in your home country. Tough decisions....I wouldn't let that stop me from following my heart, though.