am I crazy to do this? thoughts...

thanks for your opinions!

Message edited 9/11/2007 2:40:53 PM.

Re: am I crazy to do this? thoughts...

I think you should totally go for it! It sounds to me like this is the kind of opportunity you were looking for and it's in a department that you genuinely love so why not?

If this is what is going to make you happy and you think there is potential for growth, go for it!

Good luck!

Re: am I crazy to do this? thoughts...

If it is what you want to do with your life right now . . . no, you're not crazy!

Re: am I crazy to do this? thoughts...

As someone who worked for Bloomies, I can vouch for their willingness to work with employees moving up and around the company.
There were so many people who started as sales people, who moved up to Buyers, Managers, etc.
They really are a great company with great benefits. I worked with a gentlemen who made $100K selling Bridge clothing 4 days a week.

As for the situation you are in, I am looking to do the same thing. It takes guts, that I'm not sure I have.

Re: am I crazy to do this? thoughts...

If you think it'll be a job you can be happy in, no, it's not crazy at all. What you do isn't important, just the quality of life you're able to have. Less hours + less stress = better life, IMO

Re: am I crazy to do this? thoughts...

I would definitely go for it! I do think that retail will have a different kind of stress from what you are used to, so it may be better or it may be worse, but you may as well give it a shot!

Re: am I crazy to do this? thoughts...

No, if its something that will make you feel better, less stressed and you can handle the pay cut, Go for it!

Sometimes the highest paying job isnt worth it. You have to be happy!

GL with whatever you choose.

Re: am I crazy to do this? thoughts...

I don't think it's crazy at all. What you'll lack in pay you should make up for in overall enjoyment of your life.. And you'll probably meet one of my best friends as she takes a detour through Bloomies handbag section every chance she gets.

Re: am I crazy to do this? thoughts...

definitely take it. if you've already quit your corporate job, then you really have nothing to lose. it sounds like you just need some time to breathe, and if you are financially able to work there and are flexible on your weeknights and weekends - it sounds like the perfect opportunity!

Re: am I crazy to do this? thoughts...

I don't think it is crazy at all if you love fashion and think you will enjoy working in retail. Clearly, you needed a change in a career for your own sanity. It sounds like a exciting change, especially if there is room to grow.

A friend of mine used to work at Bloomies, she had great discounts that we both enjoyed!

BTW, your post totally reminds me of on old friends episode when Rachel gets an interview at Bloomingdale's and says "It's like a mothership is calling me back!" Remember?

Re: am I crazy to do this? thoughts...

I say go for it ! I made a career change also years ago (from retail/buying office to corporate/I.T.) I was happier AND made more money.

and now I got my masters in Education because I know I will be happier at this point in my life, to have more time with my family in the long run (teacher's schedule). (as opposed to staying in the corporate world).

Follow your heart, that's admirable,not crazy!

Re: am I crazy to do this? thoughts...

what were you looking for when you left your other job? It sounds like your willing to take a lower position now but want to move up to a similar position (albeit not in an office). Did you have a goal for what you would do with your life and would this job fit with it?

also, i worked in retail in HS, it is still stressful- people are very rude and impatient and it's a cutomer service job so they're always right. and you're on your feet for hours a day. IMO, if you think you could move to a more interesting position in bloomies in the next couple of years, then go for it!

Re: am I crazy to do this? thoughts...

thanks everyone...

I think for my life right now, this is the best thing. I know I do not want to be in a corporate environment right now.. and I think this can lead to other things. The stress that I had before, I think will be different than the stress here... The only two things I am struggling with are the pay, and the hours... but based on what I am looking to do now-- which is not really work in an office, I think the hours will be the same and the pay is probably the best I will get.

Re: am I crazy to do this? thoughts...

I admire you for doing what makes you happy. I am not sure I would want to work retail though, especially with the holidays approaching. Since you just quit, I might wait a bit and see what else comes along. In any event Best of luck to you!!!

Re: am I crazy to do this? thoughts...

I made a similar move and took almost 60% paycut I have a 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. now instead of a 10 a.m. - 2 a.m.

I get to work from home 3 - 4 days a week (a recent change since I was working from home all but twice a month) It's a much slower pace than my prior life and I do think I can move up in this company. Many VP's started out at the lowest positions and it seems that working your way up is valued more than having various degrees.

I will admit that it took a while to get use to the pay check. I have to close 1 - 2 real estate deals a year to make it work (this year only 1) so I keep my real estate license active.

I wrote all that to say GO FOR IT if it's a move that will make you happy.

Re: am I crazy to do this? thoughts...

Posted by anna
Follow your heart, that's admirable,not crazy!