Oh , sweetie...I'm so sorry you're going through this. It's sucks to have so much going on in your life only to have to worry about happiness at work. You've been there a long time, too, so switching to a whole new work reality is a transition you really want to be mentally prepared for. But knowing you, I know it is something you would take in stride. I also know that you wouldn't make a switch unless it was a good choice. And, having quit the same organization, I have a bit of insight. I quit in 2004 for basically the same reasons, right? Lack of appreciation and support from management - which was completely unorganized and out of control, being over-worked and underpaid, and spread thin to the point of not being able to give the families your all, etc. etc., I know our positions were entirely different, but the reasons for wanting to leave are not. That was 2004. It is almost 2008. It hasn't changed, has it? Now, I'm glad I didn't suck it up and wait for the change, though there were certainly times I wish I had.

That being said, I know how important it is for you to be an effective social worker. Having worked with you, I know how amazing you are and how many positive changes you have made in HUNDREDS of children's lives over the course of your career and education. This is why you got your MSW in the first place. If you feel you aren't able to be as effective as you know you can be, you're not going to be happy for long. You don't have to settle, Sarah. You're following a life path and you ultimately know what's best. You just have to clear your mind enough to be pragmatic about the whole situation. Do you have the resources to make the transition? Are you ready to let go of the attachments you have made with the job you have now? Will you stay in touch with your clients? Will you get the time you need to give your families the attention they deserve in the new position? Will the new position, if similar to the old, at least have better benefits, making it a smarter choice? I'm sure you've already touched on most of these, but it's always good to ask yourself all the questions. Don't do what I did and just quit in anger while telling everyone to go fuck themselves. Haha! I think once someone starts seriously considering another job, the time to move on is nigh. Not only that, but you have a great support system. Anything you decide, we'll be here for you and the wee bairn! :)

"you need to de-stress before you can make up your mind" This is good advice. I needed to hear it because work has been stressful for me and I almost had one of those walk away moments. Thanks for the simple reminder of something I tend to forget about.