What's more important - Earning potential or happiness?

[Easty-5]

As per title really, what do you consider to be more important?

I'm 22 (23 this year), been in full time employment since 16, earn a half decent wage considering I have 0 qualifications and I'm in the right industry (oil & gas) to earn good money as I gain more experience. At the moment I live quite comfortably. Own my car outright, have no debt, halfway towards a decent deposit on a house, nice watches, 2 holidays a year, weekends away etc etc.

However, I really, really lack any motivation at work. I hate my job, infact I almost despise it. It almost depresses me. I come into work in the morning and do as little as I can get away with because I just can't be arsed. I hate the people I work for. I don't mind the work too much, but I really don't think it's something I want to do for the rest of my working life. My job really is a doddle. I come in at 9am and finish at 3.30. Finish earlier quite often, very laid back atmosphere etc. It's a good number - apart from the people in charge.

I think if I moved companies it would help things massively, but since I have no qualifications, I am relying purely on experience and since it's only 4 years my options are really limited. I wouldn't be considered for trainee jobs and I won't be considered for any other relevant posts due to my lack of qualifications. Night school etc isn't really an option due to my work patterns, being abroad, offshore etc.

Obviously I am looking for a change of scenery but there really isn't much out there for me at present. My other option would be to drop out of employment completely and go back to college full time and get the quals etc required to progress or move into a completely different sector. I quite fancy a fitness based role - but from what I gather the earning potential isn't great unless you really are exceptional.

Would you give up a good paying job with the opportunities in the future to earn a good living i.e. 60-70K+ PA but you dislike the job, for a much lesser paying job, with much longer hours but you actually enjoy the job?

Any experiences, advice etc would be greatfully received.

Thanks.

[Homer Jay]

For me, happiness is more important than earnings.

I think you have a good job (schedule), but it normal to feel like in a dead end after few years. Every day the same history and the same silly bosses...

You need a change but think about the you would like to get.

[crofty1984]

Assuming you earn enough to cover the essentials as you see them (rent, bills, car x, holiday, spending money, etc) then the extra disposable isn't worth it in my opinion.

[rhinochopig]

Ideally try both. At your age, with so (relatively) few ties, it's worth chasing the money. At least you'll know then.

If I were you, I'd look into the company you work for sponsoring you. One thing you have on a rig is spare time. Start learning and do some GCSEs, A-Levels, Degree on your rotations.

I started in consultancy straight out of Uni. Loved it! Loved the cut and thrust of the projects, liked the travel, saw some places and sites that the public never ever get to see, and it built up my CV. Then went to a large Eng company and was on the fast track to director scheme in my late 20s early 30s, which was fun too - nice to get some recognition and nice to see projects start, AND finish.

Now at 38 I couldn't think of anything worse TBH. I work from home, have a family, largely drive a desk and pick and choose the work I do - work that keeps me at home - and I'll never be a rich man doing that, but on those days when I've taken a break to walk the dogs on the moor tops in the height of summer, or if I get chatting to a city boy in my local who's just spunked 12 garnd for days shooting and is effusively telling me how fantastic the area is that I (try not to) take for granted the money becomes meaningless.

Rich in the wallet: no. Rich in life: yes

[Soir]

I think most people would rather have a job that makes them happy for a little less money but without qualifications (to be considered for roles) you have to be realistic.

I didnt enjoy my job for 6-7 years, got an opportunity to work in totally different industry and be my own boss. Did it for 18months, lost £40k, never been so stressed in my life nor worked so hard. Even lost my best friend (the friendship side).

Ended up going back to my old role but working for myself and it's never been better. The role is not enjoyable but here's the point...grass is not always greener.
Sounds like you have a good job. Get more experience with current employer then apply to their competitors.

[SystemParanoia]

money every time!

[johnfm]

Rhinochopig has it.

Get your company to sponsor your qualifications.

No brainer - you get a bit of variety in your working day, still have money coming in and in 4 years or so will have 4 more years experience on the job AND qualifications.

Win-win.

[Pingman]

In my experience there's nothing worse than being stuck in a job that's come to the end of what it can offer you, whether its easy money or not, it will just keep grinding you down. And it sounds like you're at that point...

If you are, then freshen up your CV and apply for some other jobs that you like the look of. They will judge if you have enough experience or if your qualifications are letting you down. Nothing to lose and it might pull you out of this situation.

hth

[jimslops]

Easty-5 said:

As per title really, what do you consider to be more important?

I'm 22 (23 this year), been in full time employment since 16, earn a half decent wage considering I have 0 qualifications and I'm in the right industry (oil & gas) to earn good money as I gain more experience. At the moment I live quite comfortably. Own my car outright, have no debt, halfway towards a decent deposit on a house, nice watches, 2 holidays a year, weekends away etc etc.

However, I really, really lack any motivation at work. I hate my job, infact I almost despise it. It almost depresses me. I come into work in the morning and do as little as I can get away with because I just can't be arsed. I hate the people I work for. I don't mind the work too much, but I really don't think it's something I want to do for the rest of my working life. My job really is a doddle. I come in at 9am and finish at 3.30. Finish earlier quite often, very laid back atmosphere etc. It's a good number - apart from the people in charge.

I think if I moved companies it would help things massively, but since I have no qualifications, I am relying purely on experience and since it's only 4 years my options are really limited. I wouldn't be considered for trainee jobs and I won't be considered for any other relevant posts due to my lack of qualifications. Night school etc isn't really an option due to my work patterns, being abroad, offshore etc.

Obviously I am looking for a change of scenery but there really isn't much out there for me at present. My other option would be to drop out of employment completely and go back to college full time and get the quals etc required to progress or move into a completely different sector. I quite fancy a fitness based role - but from what I gather the earning potential isn't great unless you really are exceptional.

Would you give up a good paying job with the opportunities in the future to earn a good living i.e. 60-70K+ PA but you dislike the job, for a much lesser paying job, with much longer hours but you actually enjoy the job?

Any experiences, advice etc would be greatfully received.

Thanks.

Open University / distance learning

Good luck

[OllieC]

Happiness every time for me, you spend so much of your life working that it cannot in any way be good for your mental (or physical) health to do something that you find genuinely depressing on a regular basis.

Hope it works out for you chap.

[jimslops]

OllieC said:

Happiness every time for me, you spend so much of your life working that it cannot in any way be good for your mental (or physical) health to do something that you find genuinely depressing on a regular basis.

Hope it works out for you chap.

I feel like you need a good balance. It would not be so happy if I worried about cost of things. Petrol/drinks/holidays/meals/trackdays. Most of these things you take for granted with a decent disposable.

[M400 NBL]

9am until 3.30pm sounds like a right result.

How far away from work do you live? If its' close,consider how much you need to earn to make the same amount/hour should you work somewhere further. But ultimately it often comes down to how you get on with your collegues.

[jimslops]

M400 NBL said:

9am until 3.30pm sounds like a right result.

How far away from work do you live? If its' close,consider how much you need to earn to make the same amount/hour should you work somewhere further. But ultimately it often comes down to how you get on with your collegues.

Yes, but it seems as that is as well as offshore. Still good as I know many offshore workers with lots of different set ups and some who get their offshore day rate for being in the office - how many days are you averaging on the rig / year?

It sounds like he does not get on with the people he works for, and probably doesn't get on that well with the people he works with. I say keep your head down and try not let it get to you (obviously I do not know the severity, or how easy this is to do). The fact that you have you certificates means you could work your way through a drill crew (Transocean) of be eligible for many service company 'field service' positions - Schlumberger, Haliiburton, Aker and many of others. If you want the same money as now ( I am assuming gross is 35k-55k ) you will have to have that unsociable offshore life. At least if you were part of a drill crew or had the ability to progress to client well site drilling engineer (IWCF, HND and experience required) you could have some sort of manageable rotation. That all depends how ambitious / lucky / intelligent you are.

Have a look on oil careers as currently there are a lot of vacancies. Also look at the recruiters who are advertising the positions as they usually have more jobs on their personal websites as sometimes they do not get time to update both.

P.S - You have PM.

Edited by jimslops on Tuesday 31st January 09:00

[Robb F]

M400 NBL said:

9am until 3.30pm sounds like a right result.

Thats a half day!

[Easty-5]

doogz said:

What exactly do you do OP? And what don't you like about it?

I'm a Measurement specialist/calibration engineer/technician - whatever you want to call it. I calibrate equipment used for fiscal metering/measurement i.e. Turbine Meters, Pipe Provers, Coriolis Meters, Venturi tubes etc

M400 NBL said:

9am until 3.30pm sounds like a right result.

How far away from work do you live? If its' close,consider how much you need to earn to make the same amount/hour should you work somewhere further. But ultimately it often comes down to how you get on with your collegues.

Yea it's not a bad number when in the office but I often have to work weekends and don't get paid for them, work 12-16 hour shifts when away working and don't get paid anymore for that so it's swings and roundabouts really. I only live 10mins away from work, but I live right next to the main industrial estate where most oil companies are based so travel shouldn't be an issue.

jimslops said:

Yes, but it seems as that is as well as offshore. Still good as I know many offshore workers with lots of different set ups and some who get their offshore day rate for being in the office - how many days are you averaging on the rig / year?

It sounds like he does not get on with the people he works for, and probably doesn't get on that well with the people he works with. I say keep your head down and try not let it get to you (obviously I do not know the severity, or how easy this is to do). The fact that you have you certificates means you could work your way through a drill crew (Transocean) of be eligible for many service company 'field service' positions - Schlumberger, Haliiburton, Aker and many of others. If you want the same money as now ( I am assuming gross is 35k-55k ) you will have to have that unsociable offshore life. At least if you were part of a drill crew or had the ability to progress to client well site drilling engineer (IWCF, HND and experience required) you could have some sort of manageable rotation. That all depends how ambitious / lucky / intelligent you are.

Have a look on oil careers as currently there are a lot of vacancies. Also look at the recruiters who are advertising the positions as they usually have more jobs on their personal websites as sometimes they do not get time to update both.

P.S - You have PM.

Your quite right. When not offshore, working onsite etc I am in the office. When working away though it's 12-16 hour shifts. Going by last year I'd say I spent about 40% of the time offshore/abroad/onsite. Again, you are bang on with regards to co-workers/management. It's a really small company. Only 3 field guys (1 is a trainee who is utterly useless but always gets sent on jobs with me and the powers that be have never seen him on a job), 1 team leader and the GM. I don't get paid anywhere near what you suggest. More than 10K off your lowest figure. I do get an allowance paid for nights away which brings my wage up slightly but still quite a bit less. I just assumed that it wasn't a bad wage for someone my age with only GCSEs.

My current employer won't put me through any qualifications as they know I would be offski once completed. I have enquired about doing quals/course in the past and it fell on deaf ears.

[jimslops]

Easty-5 said:

Your quite right. When not offshore, working onsite etc I am in the office. When working away though it's 12-16 hour shifts. Going by last year I'd say I spent about 40% of the time offshore/abroad/onsite. Again, you are bang on with regards to co-workers/management. It's a really small company. Only 3 field guys (1 is a trainee who is utterly useless but always gets sent on jobs with me and the powers that be have never seen him on a job), 1 team leader and the GM. I don't get paid anywhere near what you suggest. More than 10K off your lowest figure. I do get an allowance paid for nights away which brings my wage up slightly but still quite a bit less. I just assumed that it wasn't a bad wage for someone my age with only GCSEs.

My current employer won't put me through any qualifications as they know I would be offski once completed. I have enquired about doing quals/course in the past and it fell on deaf ears.

In that case, cut back on all the luxuries you have and pay for a HND Engineering yourself. I am amazed anyone offshore earns less than 30k, never mind.

As I said before, you would be eligible for many more entry level positions with service or dillinger contractor.

[Easty-5]

doogz said:

Ah, fair enough, it's pretty specific then. I wondered if you were a draughtsman, or a rigger, or something that's fairly universal in terms of skills, where you could completely change industry and still be qualified in a useful manner.

The only transferable skills I have are mechanical and limited electrical really. Obviously I have offshore experience so know all the HSE requirements, PTW systems, Risk assesments etc. It's a very niche market, and competition is small but it does however pay very well if you can get a start with one of the operators on a rotation basis offshore. The problem is, to get that role you need an HND/C and/or experience. I only really have the relevant experience for about 30% of the role.

[ross-co]

Easty,

I would go with happiness over money. I am sure you have looked into distance learning/open uni, i think that is the way I will be going (joys of us being at Bankhead eh ), as well as moving to a new department within the company.

If you hate your job that much it will only be a matter of time be it months or years until you crack and cant even face going in, you can only do something you despise for so long.

[jimslops]

Easty-5 said:

The only transferable skills I have are mechanical and limited electrical really. Obviously I have offshore experience so know all the HSE requirements, PTW systems, Risk assesments etc. It's a very niche market, and competition is small but it does however pay very well if you can get a start with one of the operators on a rotation basis offshore. The problem is, to get that role you need an HND/C and/or experience. I only really have the relevant experience for about 30% of the role.

You should be able to get a start with a service company as a trainee for not much less than you are on. Wireline, logging, cementing, pit cleaning, ship and skip, the list goes on. Once trained you should see a lot more money.

Cut back on all the luxuries you have and pay your way through distance learning HNC/HND Engineering if this is the industry you want to stay in.

[Easty-5]

jimslops said:

You should be able to get a start with a service company as a trainee for not much less than you are on. Wireline, logging, cementing, pit cleaning, ship and skip, the list goes on. Once trained you should see a lot more money.

Cut back on all the luxuries you have and pay your way through distance learning HNC/HND Engineering if this is the industry you want to stay in.

This would seem the best option. I will get my CV out there and see if anything comes from it. I have looked into doing an HNC/D through distance learning but the cost is rather large. It's from the techincal college in Teeside so rental of equipment etc adds to the cost also. On the flipside I guess it would be an investment. I have been in touch with Aberdeen College and they are in the final stages of rolling out a distance learning course for HND/C in engineering so hopefully the cost would be less since it's local.

Thanks for the advice so far. Serious question; Does anybody on here actually look forward to going to work? I mean, do you wake up in the morning and not actually mind going to work? I'm guessing how I feel isn't really the norm, or am I just having a 'moment'? My job can be okay sometimes. For example last February I spent 2 weeks in Dubai on a 5 star spa resort - everything paid for and only working 6-7 hour days. This would appear to be a one off though as I never get the "good" jobs.

I don't want to get to the stage where I have a house and financial commitments and stuck in a job I hate but can't leave because of the former. On the other hand I have become accustomed to the money I am making and having a large (for me) disposable income. So to have less money, and be in the same job I can only see me being even less happy - which almost puts me off paying my way through qualifications & courses.