I have a new job!

[KAnn]

I just had to post this...I am going to work for less money (much), but I have been so miserable the past few years that it is difficult to describe...I will be working in a natural foods store in my neighborhhood and if it doesn't develop into a career with reasonable pay, I will be able to take a breather until I can get back into the non-profit sector. I am vested in the ESOP plan and leaving with about 50 hours of vacation pay...I took this position before the economic downturn and expected it to be very temporary...I am so relieved and happy that I could cry! I have never worked with such a group of difficult women....I am trying to take the high road (I gave them 3 weeks notice, etc) and they are still attempting to make me miserable! lol Oh,well....it's been a learning experience. :)

[livelychef]

I hope the next 3 weeks goes quickly and smoothly.

Take time everyday when you get home from work to take a deep breath and say - one more day closer to being done with that toxic environment.

[eas11]

Congrats and good for you for taking the right steps for your own mental health and sanity!!

Me too :) I start my new job tomorrow. Still non-profit (educational setting) and <money as well- but, I'll have my life back! Working 50+ hours, on-call, a toxic boss....I needed to get out. HR came to see me today and said "Do you REALLY have 105 vacation hours?"....UM, yes, does that give you any indication as to why I'm leaving, Ms. HR person? Nice of us to get 22 days a year, what good if you can never take time?

I WISH I would have been able to afford to do something totally different as you did, but there is no way we can afford for me to at this point. I've always wanted to work in a small, independent bookstore. There ARE still a few and we have a sweet on in Brookline. Maybe someday....

So, what will you be doing? Sounds like there is a career track?

[luv2cook]

Do you REALLY have 105 vacation hours?"....UM, yes, does that give you any indication as to why I'm leaving, Ms. HR person? Nice of us to get 22 days a year, what good if you can never take time?

Did you really say all this? If so. Great!

[LakeMartinGal]

Congrats on the new job! Enjoy the peace and quiet of retail :rolleyes: !

[eas11]

Did you really say all this? If so. Great!

Yes!

We actually had a very good 1 1/2 hr long exit interview. After a few complimentary statements from me, she said, "I'd really like to know your feelings". I asked her if she wanted the polite responses, or reality statements, which she did. So, I am hoping that my leaving has some positive effects on wonderful but equally overworked collegues still there, and feeling stuck.

Sorry for the hijack, KAnn!
Still looking forward to hearing what you will be doing with healthy food!

[KAnn]

I hope the next 3 weeks goes quickly and smoothly.

Take time everyday when you get home from work to take a deep breath and say - one more day closer to being done with that toxic environment.

Thank you...I needed to read those words tonight. Actually, it is only two more weeks as I gave my notice last week.

[slawrence]

Congrats to you both! KAnn, are you going to Wild Oats by any chance? Gotta love getting to the point where you can nail what will make you happier and being bold enough to leave other things (the bigger money) behind. Good for you!

eas11-I'm glad you were able to have a good exit interview. I always felt we should do them at my office. I did conduct them when I was a manager, but they fell through the cracks when I moved into a different position. I believe it does help figure out what needs attention as long as management is willing to have an open mind.

Good luck in this initial training period. It's no fun to be the new person but fun to challenge yourself! Sue