Hi Shelley, The "right" time to go back to work? Wow, that is such a personal decision!! For lots of people (including me), balancing day care, scheduling issues, the ages of the kids, and how much my other family members (mother, in-laws, etc.) could help were major factors. Not to mention "how much can I make if I go back?" and "is it worth it, given the cost of care??"

There are always factors like these to consider - and that doesn't even cover the "career path" part of the conversation!! What will happen if I leave for "too long"? Can I get a good job if I leave to raise a family? All important things to think about when you're considering a life-change (which "going back to work" is!).

I think that the only people who can answer those questions are you and your family. Each person and each situation is different. Talk with those closest to you about the details... if you go back to work, what happens with (fill in the blank)... if not, then what about (again, fill in the blank). You know what's right for you! If you want to get an outsider's opinion, then take it for what it's worth... but ultimately YOU are the one who needs to decide what's right for your situation.

It's a tough decision... and you'll probably have questions every step of the way (which is ok), but you'll do the right thing.

Good luck & let us know what you decide!
Marijoy

p.s. And if you decide to go back to work - come back to Jobcase to find something great!