Hi Mustachians,
I am so glad to have found a group of Mustachians.
I am finding myself in a dilemma. I am a guy in early 30's who works as a low-level Information Technology contractor testing software. I have been in this line of work for four years now. I have built up a modest stash, but I really hate my job. Assuming I do not suffer setbacks like layoffs, I would be able to reach my freedom stash goal in 4 or 5 years, but I am not sure if I have it in me to last that long.
Would you share some of your insights on how you managed to stay in a job you hated or how you switched to a new career? I am basically trying to figure out if I can get out of IT entirely and move into a different job with a similar or better salary. I have even been thinking about training to become a tradesperson like a plumber or an electrician even if that slows down my stash-building.
I ended up in this job after doing poorly as a computer science major in college. I felt back then I would hate programming or doing other kind of IT work, but I was too lost and scared to properly figure out what else to do. Before this job, I had a long period of bumbling around doing odd jobs. My job mainly consists of running dull tests on software, criticizing programmers, sitting in on meetings, working late at night, etc. I do not experience any sense of growth or meaning in what I do. From looking at people who are my senior, I do not see a very bright future ahead. That was one of my main reasons for trying to become financially independent early on by living frugally. The prospect of doing this type of work for 4 or 5 more years is simply draining.
Here are some of my financial details. I am not doing a detailed breakdown here since I am looking for job advice rather than advice on maximizing my savings. I make about $4800 per month after taxes - that's about $6800 before taxes - and save about $3600 per month, which is 75%. To note, I live in one of the most expensive states in the country, so my monthly expense of $1200 is considered low here sadly. I have saved up about $100K, mostly invested in stocks and ETFs. I have zero debt. I do not own a home, but rent a room. My stash goal is to save 270K to 300K, move to a cheaper state, get a relaxing part-time job, and spend more time nurturing my interest in art and writing. I also hope to meet the future Mrs. Mustache.
If you have any advice on how to deal with my hateful job or transition into something else with a similar pay level, I would appreciate it. Again, to emphasize, I am trying to get out of IT, so please no tips like "Go into software development! It's the best!" Thank you very much.