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Kids cost you like £75 a day. For £75 a day I could get a cleaner in to do the house and all my laundry and also never have to cook again and still be able to afford something fun like alcoholism
Yep. It's almost like if you make achieving the material security ideal to have a child difficult and make raising children incredibly expensive people will have fewer children. Funny that.
And yet financial incentives have shown almost no impact on birth rates in developed countries. I agree raising children is prohibitively expensive for some people but there's definitely more at play than cost.
Same here! Always said I'd happily be a stay at home dad. I'd love to be able to take care of my daughter full time for the next year. I'm also convinced 1-2 years is the best learning stage for kids so I'd be winning, so many firsts and so much fun running around parks.
When our kids were young, I had a work from home business. It was pretty cool to be able to spend extra time with the kids. Early last year, my business (finally) went under, and now I'm a stay at home dad. The kids are older now (11+), but it's still good to be around for them. When they are on holiday, I can do fun things with them and help guide them through the tough teenage years.
In my experience, kids are most fun from about 3 to 7. They need you most from about 10.5, but that's when they are hardest to reach.
It's not just about that cost. It's losing your place in the job market. It's losing out on a career and any progression. From that point on you're just working jobs. Not building a career.
Totally. It was a real struggle to pay for full time childcare when we had our first 10 years ago but I'm so glad I didn't stay at home. I've steadily progressed in my career and we are now in a much better place than we would have been if I had taken that path.
Now second child is starting reception this year and we finally reached that long awaited light at the end of the tunnel, I can say it was worth it 100%.
This is such an important point that most people completely miss when running the numbers.
One of us could’ve quit work to do the early childcare, but because we didn’t, our careers flourished to a point that we earn well and have power over our careers to spend extra time with them as they grow up.
I’m guessing they’re based in London or the south east. That amount is fairly standard here. I’ve a few friends who’re paying over £2k a month per child.
We’re currently paying £1,500 which is a bargain for the area. Childcare costs is the main reason we’re only having one child. Financially we couldn’t make it work if we had two.
Ah man, it's so hard isn't it. We had kids before we were ready to buy a house, with the consequence that we are only now getting ready to buy in the next year or so, and we're both 40 now. It's not easy fitting everything in these days
Yeah the average age gap between kids has increased and it’s entirely due to childcare costs being too much to have two in childcare at the same time. It’ll be interesting to see what the consequences are down the line. Sibling spacing affects children’s development in many ways
Well, it's about £19k a year. Whilst that's a huge amount, lots of people will still be significantly better off in work. I just looked up the average salary in my area and it's £39k. So if you're an average couple both in work you're still much better off working than not.
Then obviously there's the longer term thing of keeping your career going so that over a longer timeframe you earn more.
At £39k a year, assuming a plan 2 student loan and a 4% pension, both fairly standard, your annual take home would be about £29k.
So after nursery fees, you'd have £10k per year in your pocket, not sure I'd say that's *much* better off.
I think for most people it's your second point about keeping your career going, and for a lot of people their sanity too!
I'd certainly say 10k extra a year is much better off. I think you'd have to be extremely comfortably off for £830 a month not to be a significant bit of extra money.
I'd love to. Unfortunately, it just wouldn't work financially. I can see two scenarios where it's doable. When your salary is low enough that a significant part of the income loss is cancelled out by not paying childcare. Or when your partner's salary is high enough to cover costs.
We're right in the middle. We earn too much for it not to be a massive hit if one of us stopped working, but not enough that one of us can support the family alone.
Complete my book on Roman Lincolnshire. I have 2 notebooks full of writing, maps galore, a drive full of photos and 3D models, waiting for the year I could do just that. \*sighs dreamily\*
There are a couple of books on the Roman history of our county, but one is 60 years old and VERY dry. The other more recent one focuses more on finds, and a few specific sites.
Petuaria is an odd one...
It's a small Roman town, that replaced an earlier fort (that's fairly standard). But given its small size (as we currently understand it) it must have been pretty much ram-packed busy all the time. It's a combination port and ferry crossing over the Humber. as it straddles the line on the Ermine street all traffic going North South had to cross the river at this point. Continental goods were being brought in on boats, so likely an important market town. Oh and it had a flipping theatre as well!
Excavations in the 30s and 40s revealed some of the city stone defences, including gates that featured some design ideas that appear over in Germany. There's also the possibility one of the corner towers featured some kind of platform for possibly a siege weapon like an Ongar or a Ballista!
It's been much overlooked by later historians, so there's probably still a lot to learn about it. Though there is currently a local society who are raising the profile and pushing for further investigations.
I am just in the middle of my two years off work with enough savings to do anything I want.
Year 1, I travelled all around the world without a single worry about costs. Zero work, all relax.
Now, I am one month into year 2. I stay at home and focus on self development. I started going to the gym, I learn Chinese, I try to run a business, I read books and learn all the other things I never had time for. I am busy from 7am to 10pm every day and I love it.
Interesting to see other people's answers.
Do not waste your youth saving up for later. You never know what's coming. Maybe you'll die in a car accident in two years and all that saved up money will be worthless to you. Maybe you'll get cancer and never get to enjoy your retirement. Even if you do, you probably won't be as healthy as you'd like. If you have a chance, enjoy the best years of your life.
Super interesting! I want to do this as well but scared about taking the plunge! Curious to know your monthly outgoings and how much you saved up before taking the time off?
I probably have enough savings to last me two years if I'm economical but would have to make lifestyle cutbacks. And it would scare me ending up with £0 in the end. Although I do have decent equity in my house as well
I mean it really depends. In Asia you can live comfortably for £1k a month, in the US you need at least £5k. I spend probably £3-4k per month on average but I could definitely cut it back a bit (currently living in London). I had enough saved for at least a couple of years, maybe 5 if I budget properly.
One of the things I’m learning currently is stock trading, I already made enough for another couple of years.
i'm hoping the shares i just bought in gamestop will pay for me to do the same as you. The squeeze in 2021 paid for my eye surgery, this next one hopefully happening soon will set me up for life
I don’t think the person above was saying spend ALL your money. For example, my partner and I have been saving for a house for a while but last year we quit our jobs and went travelling in the US for a few months. Now we’re back working and have almost finished saving, but I’m forever grateful we ticked something off our bucket list before we’re retired. Obviously we’re incredibly fortunate to be able to have done that, but the point is to not just spend your younger years saving for old age and to instead still live and take risks.
I still save up. I am not reckless, I do not spend ALL my money. I just mean it needs a balance. Do not waste your youth not enjoying the present, saving all of it for the future.
Assuming you own your house outright I'd be doing a mixture of futureproofing the house and travelling.
All those DIY jobs and saving money in the future (insulation, solar panels, veggie patch, etc).\
It's also worth spending some time finding and cultivating hobbies and local groups. If you don't have something to keep you occupied retirement can drive you up the wall.
My mum did a degree and then a masters in fashion. Something she had always wanted to do. The curious thing was she came out of it the other side better off than when she started due to the financial help she got for being a mature student and work she was paid to do etc.
Personally, I'd learn some sort of skill or rebuild a classic car. It depends how much money I actually had.
If I had money in the bank, I'd continue to work, and that money would be used to pay down our mortgage.
I'm big on life experiences.
I'd book an extravagant holiday somewhere I've always wanted to go. I'd book festival tickets and concerts because I love things like that but can't always afford it or get time off.
I'd also get the house done up, most of walls could do with a freshen up paint and maybe get some new white goods for older appliances and some new furnishings.
I'd mix experience in with something that can open up the options once it's over, for example:
Experience: I'd do some of the stunning long distance paths we have here and in Europe. Coast to Coast, Pennine Way, West Highland Way and South West Coast path to name but a few. Chunk them up over X days and then return for your childcare commitments. I'd also look to do some of the European ones that are serviced by cheap airports, so Camino Santiago, Tour du Mont Blanc.
Earnings: what has your career been in? I'd learn some new skills over the year so that when I return to part time, my earning potential is higher for less hours.
Yes this all makes sense.
I hiked the Ridgeway last year and have my eye on a couple of other trails.
My career was Army/Police. I'm 50 now so I want to put all the shifts and violence behind me but maybe work in the same sphere. But I need to decompress first!
Being ex forces/police, I assume you've been relatively fit? If I was to choose work career aside, I'd go into ultra/trail running and fitness coaching. It's a fairly low barrier to entry, especially if you're already a bit older and can study. I'm guessing your background would transfer well. I work in marketing but have qualifications that I did in lockdown, that I use to part time coach a run club.
Might also help with the decompression - fitness massively improves general physical and mental wellbeing.
from this post I can see that almost everyone is being severely limited from their dreams, hopes and desires, by a society deliberately depriving them of the money it takes to seek out fulfilment.
I no longer work and just enjoy not having to be rat racing every day. I’ve gained so much pleasure from things like being able to redecorate rooms at a gentle pace rather than cramming DIY stuff into evenings, weekends and annual leave and resenting every second. I love spending all day pottering in my garden. I love waking up on a cold and miserable morning and just turning over and sleeping for another hour. I love meeting up with friends for lunch in really nice places and going first class on the train to London as a treat. I love going for a swim or a walk when I feel like it and not putting it off because I’m so tired from being at work..…and so on. I’m grateful that I’m able to do these things now rather than having to do gruelling shifts in a hospital.
I guess I’m saying that if I only had a year off I’d spend it just enjoying relaxing, recharging, and knowing I had a bit of money for doing nice things in that year.
I also write and do a lot of art/craft so I’m never bored - I guess with no interests or hobbies, my way of life could become boring. Obviously it wouldn’t suit everyone.
I have retired from my main career as I have earned my pension, including a lump sum that allows me to to take some time off BUT for long term comfort I would like to something else for work.
I am only 50 and can't imagine not working again but it's good to get a break
I'd probably get an allotment and also work in my garden as I love gardening. Try and get some fruit and vegetables going. I'd go to the gym or excersise first thing 5 days a week. Either weights with a bit of cardio or swimming outdoors or long walks in the countryside. Would think about doing a decent cooking course. If there was one in France that was well received I would think about that. I would think about doing some volunteering too. I would also make time to read. Few trips to my favourite place which is Cadiz in Spain.
I’d explore my local area more. Take those footpaths I’ve never been down. I’d volunteer more. And I’d take up some classes in things outside my comfort zone like painting or learning sign language or something. At the end of the year I’d hope to have enriched myself, not my bank balance.
Whatever you do, remain physically active.
Use the time to develop some form of exercise (aka Self Care) into a habit.
Add in a hobby, creative of some sort - language / music / crafting etc
And do some personal development - learn additional skills
and please please please drink some champagne.
I'm lucky enough to have 6 weeks off in my kid 30s whilst changing careers. I'm spending time with the kids and doing all the diy jobs around the house that I don't have the time or energy for when im working full time.
I went from a full time permanent role to consulting which is much more part time in nature! I got a dog. We spend a lot of time exploring both the neighbourhood and further afield. I brushed up on cooking skills, now have a lovely garden, and spend a lot of time with friends. I also started to camp in increasingly more remote spots. And I learn languages for fun.
Would definitely do some travelling, working around childcare.
Would like to get into a few hobbies - learn a new instrument, some art classes
Take a lot of day trips to see more of the UK and do some walks.
Volunteer - have done a few different roles and all very worthwhile
Well, I will be doing that from August, as I'll have over 12 months of maternity leave. So... I'll be taking care of the baby. Also, we have a big family holiday planned next year with baby. Really looking forward to it :)
I'd see what things I've always wanted to do are that require fitness to do. E.g climb a mountain, cycle up a col from the tour de France etc as with a year off you can put in all the training you need, and you won't be too old to not be able to do it.
Work on all the hobbies I never have enough time for (write a novel, painting, photography etc). Get a coach and dedicate a year to training for an Ironman triathlon. Actually see my friends and family.
Keep on top of the weeding in the garden.
I have done this off and on for a while.
A lot depends on you, what you like and what you need in your life.
I like and miss people, so I always end up doing some form of part time 'work' - charity work, helping with mate's businesses, volunteering. All of it has been fun. Just working in a cafe, for a mate, for 1-2 days a week has been fun, equally serving at a shelter.
I have then mixed this part time with personal interests, like some DIY, cycling (with my local club), yoga, video gaming etc.
Working a couple days at a local shelter makes me love even more spending the whole of the next day video gaming. It is like I have earned it. And yes, I am old and still love my video games.
I just really enjoy the 1-3 days a week pseudo work mixed with indulgent hobbies.
I deliberately make sure I stay active, relatively fit, happy and not lonely.
Don't think of it as time "not working", but time to do what you want.
Hope it helps. Enjoy the time.
I've had the past year off work, pretty much.
Unless you find something active to go, you will get bored and lazy very quickly. Try to meet friends. Try to go for at least one walk a day. Take the kid. Find a creative activity to do, like painting, drawing, writing, making candle jars, whatever. Keep your mind stimulated by doing puzzles like jigsaws and so on.
We bought our first house last year. It has a big pool in the garden that is basically a concrete hole in the ground. Needs a ton of work to get it back to a pool. So I would either work to do that, or fill it in and landscape over it. I have also recently started getting in to woodworking. Built our dining room table. So I would develop that hobby. Our shed is falling apart so I would also build a new one. That and take up brewing beer. Maybe get a job at a cool local brewery part time. I have a 3 year old. So I may swap all of that to take him out of nursery and become a stay at home Dad until he goes to school. I am sure I could get some of the landscaping done with him 'helping out'. Enjoy!!!
I back all the suggestions to go on an adventure and learn new skills that interest you. I'm in a similar position and signed up for the Clipper race around the world, with no prior sailing experience. Many people I've met in training have a similar forces/police background and are looking for something more atm.
I'd like to ski for a long period in winter. I'd get bored in the autumn and spring. Summer I would try and do as many music festivals and holidays that I could find friends to go with me. If money's no object, I'm paying to make that job of convincing easier.
I have recently just had a year off. I came into some money and decided, fuck it.
I just did dad things. Took the kids out, learned a few new diy skills like carpentry, basic electrics, flooring, etc. I spent the summer in the garden tending my veggie patch and the holidays reliving my youth vicariously through my kids. I walked everywhere with the dog. I reconnected with my wife and fell in love all over again.
I felt well and truly free.
I’d probably just do nothing, spend time with family but I’m sure that year would fly by and I’d be back to work before I knew it wishing that I’d done something meaningful
My loved ones work weird schedules l, I'd definitely make more of an effort to se them. If I didn't have a 1 year old and another on the way I'd take up wildlife photography. I will once they're older and more self reliant and less liable to break expensive things.
This would be one of the best moments of my life! I will travel most of the countries in the world that I like the most to visit. Will also build a business or invest so the cash in my bank still growing while traveling. Will definitely also buy a Town House that has a Seashore view and stay for as much as I'd love to.
I’d think about some working holidays I really fancy doing and some really interesting volunteering opportunities. There’s a castle in France (guedolon) that they are building from scratch using medieval techniques. You do need to camp if you volunteer there. Waterway Recovery Group runs week long camps (and weekends) that are really satisfying. I bet the national trust or BTCV has projects and many charity shops are desperate for workers.
I’d also cycle everyday as it boost my mood and tones my legs. I’d consider a long walking or cycling project, such as the west highland way or doing the south west coast path in stages.
I’d also complete some DIY projects, travel to see old friends and catch up properly, and my garden would look amazing.
Travelling isn't out if you take the kids with you!
I wouldn't say popping out for more than 4 days with them at a time makes sense as they get bored and you need to pack too much for longer, but take your bebes to Rome, or Athens, or somewhere fun. Pop out for a couple of days at a time here and there.
Do a physical hobby the rest of the time so you're not twiddling your thumbs.
What are the ages of your kids? When I was on Mat leave (obviously your will be older) I was popping out with the little one all the time, as they are free to fly under two. For 4 days I just took a backpack so it felt like a breeze!
Enjoy your year off whatever you do.
All that travelling and living the high life sounds like it would get old quickly.
I could quite happily spend the year mucking about and entertaining my kids. Playing silly dad games with my babies sounds like a great way to spend time.
I'd love to say I'd do something exciting, but I've been temporarily unemployed for 6 weeks (decided to take a break after quitting my job before starting the next one) and I've done absolutely fuck all with my time.
I'm not near retirement sadly so if I had a year's salary in the bank and didn't have to work for a year right now, I'd still work. Savings for the future are important for me as I never want to be in any kind of financial trouble.
When I hit 62 I'll have done 40 years in my company and I'll be out the door forever (if not sooner). Would I do part time work or just enjoy retirement? Too early to say, right now I'm pretty hobby-less so I'd definitely pick up a few. When my Dad retired he lost a ton of weight as he didn't have any hobbies so he just walked everywhere.
Probably a through-hike of the Appalachian trail, have wanted to do it since I was a kid but from a financial / time perspective it’s impossible for my circumstances.
Its not that crazy let’s assume average nursery teacher salary is £35k
Need two teachers per 10 children on average.
70k per year per 10 children
7k a year per child
£600 a month per child.
This is with no overheads and no other costs built into it. Not unreasonable for it to be double based on that unfortunately.
If I could do that and had no plan, I'd probably NOT do it and throw every penny into my pension so when it is time, I can do it properly (and have a plan ready then)
I would travel with my dogs, do up my house, chase hobbies, volunteer, be more social and spend more time outside in nature. I think in general, I'd probably be much much happier and then only having to work part-time after, sounds great. You only have one life.
Was almost in this position. Had really good maternity pay for 9 months. Planned on doing a bookshop tour. Made a list of lovely cafes and bookshops to visit when my daughter was small enough to carry everywhere.
Unfortunately she became unwell at 8 weeks and was in and out of hospital. The maternity was a much needed cushion. She’s better now and I’m going back to work.
Honestly I'd develop one of my hobbies (of which I have many) and see if I could get it to be profitable so I wouldn't have to go back to part time in a year.
I've dabbled in various forms of crafting (woodwork, knitting/crochet, metal work, sewing, glass work, 3d printing, laser cutting) usually in response to a specific need. While I got proficient at them never had the time to really go full in and make any money. It would be nice to really dive in to one of them again.
Part of the problem is I like making things but then they take up space, so if I can get good enough that people are willing to buy pieces that would be like a win, win, win!
I would schedule time for a few things I want to achieve and do them daily.
1. Fitness
2. Study, like language or other skill
3. Leisure, like reading or gaming.
4. Career aspiration, like write a book or research market.
I've tried to do these sort of things this year on a smaller scale (evenings and weekends as I have a full time job), and when scheduled in and done routinely it's surprising how much progress you can make over a long time period. Day to day it doesn't seem impressive or worth it, but the consistency adds up eventually.
I'd love to have a couple of years to study. I'm currently doing a distance learning degree at a snails pace while working and looking after the kids. I'd love to be able to pack in work, and go and study properly, in person, and be able to focus on it fully
When I had a summer between jobs I just played PC games and went for runs.
I also cooked a lot more, generally focussed on getting healthier and relaxed.
My old man bought the local pub when he retired. He was just spending a lot of time and saw the business could be improved so did.
He then bought a bar near his place in Portugal and did the same over there.
He’s not an alcoholic I promise lol
If I just got my years salary as an extra payment?
Pay off my debt, invest the rest and carry on working. The savings in debt payments would massively improve my family's quality of life and I couldn't justify taking a year off when I could keep working, invest the extra money and make my kids better off in the long run. I'd be bored stupid after 2 weeks anyway
Also have a kid at school so I'd be planning a big 6 week get away for the summer holiday that his dad could join us on for 2-3 weeks, and another easter get away. Probably Thailand or America. Then the garden and house would be spruced up. I'd take over Christmas and spend most of December sorting that. Then I'd travel the UK every weekend visiting friends and family that I don't see as much as I'd like. Probably also do some crafts/ woodwork but doubt I'd get far cause as you can see, I'm very busy!
I'm way off retirement, but personally I'd become a fitness addict, swim every morning, then either gym or jog (weather dependent). I used to have time for that but with work, aging parents and life in general, I've found myself rotund and tired
Finish painting my 40k.... Or buy more and fish the year bigger pile of unpainted figure... I'd probably have to go back to work early as spent my lump sum on plastic.
I wouldn't take year off, just carry on. Get a role where you can enjoy time with your kids and build on your investments.
Have fun & good luck out there
How old are you? Not far off retirement age? Good luck getting apart time job after stopping work.
Personally I'm lucky, I enjoy the work I do. I'd maybe turn down requests from customers but I mostly make what I want now anyway. I guess maybe I'd use the momey to travel a bit more than normal
I would honestly find a 20 hour a week job that I want to do and do that. I retired twice and am now heading for my 3rd. It is nice to have some structure as well as some extra money.
Make a bunch of short films or work on getting my feature made. I made my first short film this year and loved the experience, I'm making my 2nd in a few months. I'd love to commit to it 100% but it's just not financially realistic. But having the TIME to commit to it would be amazing - doing it on weekends after working 35 hour weeks can be a bit exhausting at times.
yo dude i read one of your comments like 9 years ago under a discussion of the film "creed" where you mentioned how you felt bad that ryan coogler was pursuing his dreams in filmmaking while you were the same age and i just wanted to say i think it's awesome you're actually making films now
I'm currently doing this (year off, not the pension!). I cook well, exercise, see friends, read books, write things. As well as trying to find the least stressful work to do next year.
I would fully explore my creative side. Set up an artists studio for myself and bring along my writing materials. Have a go at making a comic book from scratch. Write and publish a short story. Paint my own Magnum Opus. I think it would all be pretty fun to push my imagination further and chill out.
I was going to say travel because that's what I did when I hit 30 last year. I quit my job and went travelling for 15 months. But alas. Kids.
Next for me would be hit up the hobbies, get really good at something or somethings I enjoy. Find local classes in skills I don't have and learn those.
I would also spend and make time with family and friends. Whoever the most important people are in my life. Visit them, cook them meals, paint them a picture it doesn't matter. I'd show them they're appreciated and make them feel special while I have the time to do so.
But again, I don't have kids. Probably look after your kid extra good. Spend lots of quality time with them. Take them on adventures to learn skills and meet people. Etc.
Start going to some of the local craft groups and events that are all on 2-4 in the afternoon and finish some of the many 1/2 done projects stashed in the spare room.
Volunteer for the local food bank and/or animal rescue place a couple of days a week.
Start taking piano lessons again. I learned to play when I was a kid but haven't touched a piano in 20 years.
Sign up for the basic Italian course at the local college.
Make a dent in the ever growing to be read list of books.
Finally play some of the games I got in the Steam Christmas sale.
Start taking in foster kittens (if my current cats allow it)
Only 20+ years to go until my first pension kicks in and I can probably go part time.
I would invest cash and still work. If long travelling is not an option which would be my first option , then why loose whole year of doing nothing?
If working is not option than travel for few weeks a month when child care commitments not on the page, complete the baking classes, open my little baking at home business. 1 year of colleague not sure where that would bring you to not much you can finish in a year study wise.
I've got a few hobbies that could totally be my main gig. If I could just take some time off work, I'd dive into those hobbies and see where they lead. Then I could decide not to go back to work.
I also wanna pick up a new skill and take a month off to travel with my folks to destinations they have longed to visit but now feel hesitant to explore on their own.
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I'd look after our child. It would save us £1600 a month in childcare fees!
And people wonder why birth rates are declining rapidly. Absolutely crazy.
Kids cost you like £75 a day. For £75 a day I could get a cleaner in to do the house and all my laundry and also never have to cook again and still be able to afford something fun like alcoholism
Lol, nice one. On a serious point, as a liver transplant patient I can say alcoholism is far from fun when your internals go on strike.
£75 a day would get me a ok-ish coke habit. Would get me a good amount of weed tho 🤔
Boring habit. Take up Haagen-Dazs instead.
Not funny. I used to be addicted to this shit, every time I see a tub now Ice cream
That's a top tier dad joke, gone well over a few heads too lol
Ha! Love it 😂
Yep. It's almost like if you make achieving the material security ideal to have a child difficult and make raising children incredibly expensive people will have fewer children. Funny that.
And yet financial incentives have shown almost no impact on birth rates in developed countries. I agree raising children is prohibitively expensive for some people but there's definitely more at play than cost.
Same here! Always said I'd happily be a stay at home dad. I'd love to be able to take care of my daughter full time for the next year. I'm also convinced 1-2 years is the best learning stage for kids so I'd be winning, so many firsts and so much fun running around parks.
When our kids were young, I had a work from home business. It was pretty cool to be able to spend extra time with the kids. Early last year, my business (finally) went under, and now I'm a stay at home dad. The kids are older now (11+), but it's still good to be around for them. When they are on holiday, I can do fun things with them and help guide them through the tough teenage years. In my experience, kids are most fun from about 3 to 7. They need you most from about 10.5, but that's when they are hardest to reach.
Yep I'd happily do it, but it's just not financially viable. Especially when our mortgage has just gone up £400 a month!
Bloody hell, how much do you earn to make paying that much in childcare justifiable?
It's not just about that cost. It's losing your place in the job market. It's losing out on a career and any progression. From that point on you're just working jobs. Not building a career.
And losing out on the pension contributions while you're out as well
Yeah. It's so much more complicated than just 'childcare costs as much as my wage so I guess I wont work'
Totally. It was a real struggle to pay for full time childcare when we had our first 10 years ago but I'm so glad I didn't stay at home. I've steadily progressed in my career and we are now in a much better place than we would have been if I had taken that path. Now second child is starting reception this year and we finally reached that long awaited light at the end of the tunnel, I can say it was worth it 100%.
This is such an important point that most people completely miss when running the numbers. One of us could’ve quit work to do the early childcare, but because we didn’t, our careers flourished to a point that we earn well and have power over our careers to spend extra time with them as they grow up.
I’m guessing they’re based in London or the south east. That amount is fairly standard here. I’ve a few friends who’re paying over £2k a month per child. We’re currently paying £1,500 which is a bargain for the area. Childcare costs is the main reason we’re only having one child. Financially we couldn’t make it work if we had two.
Or space them out. That's what we did. 5 year gap - only one of them in expensive childcare at a time. It's been great.
That’s not an option unfortunately. Housing is so expensive that we had to leave it later than we wanted to start a family.
Ah man, it's so hard isn't it. We had kids before we were ready to buy a house, with the consequence that we are only now getting ready to buy in the next year or so, and we're both 40 now. It's not easy fitting everything in these days
Yeah the average age gap between kids has increased and it’s entirely due to childcare costs being too much to have two in childcare at the same time. It’ll be interesting to see what the consequences are down the line. Sibling spacing affects children’s development in many ways
Well, it's about £19k a year. Whilst that's a huge amount, lots of people will still be significantly better off in work. I just looked up the average salary in my area and it's £39k. So if you're an average couple both in work you're still much better off working than not. Then obviously there's the longer term thing of keeping your career going so that over a longer timeframe you earn more.
At £39k a year, assuming a plan 2 student loan and a 4% pension, both fairly standard, your annual take home would be about £29k. So after nursery fees, you'd have £10k per year in your pocket, not sure I'd say that's *much* better off. I think for most people it's your second point about keeping your career going, and for a lot of people their sanity too!
I'd certainly say 10k extra a year is much better off. I think you'd have to be extremely comfortably off for £830 a month not to be a significant bit of extra money.
Well arguably you’re not better off. Working 37.5 hours a week in order to see an extra £830 a month, as opposed to not working. That’s insanity
I’ve been a stay at home dad for the last eight years. I would highly recommend it.
I'd love to. Unfortunately, it just wouldn't work financially. I can see two scenarios where it's doable. When your salary is low enough that a significant part of the income loss is cancelled out by not paying childcare. Or when your partner's salary is high enough to cover costs. We're right in the middle. We earn too much for it not to be a massive hit if one of us stopped working, but not enough that one of us can support the family alone.
Complete my book on Roman Lincolnshire. I have 2 notebooks full of writing, maps galore, a drive full of photos and 3D models, waiting for the year I could do just that. \*sighs dreamily\* There are a couple of books on the Roman history of our county, but one is 60 years old and VERY dry. The other more recent one focuses more on finds, and a few specific sites.
Business secrets of Roman Lincolnshire
My first thought hahaha
Published by British London
Ooh please finish that book. Would love to read it.
Yes! Not just Lincolnshire. Roman Britain in general.....
Please get the notebooks scanned and backed up online. Would hate to think a random coffee spill or hangry pet could destroy it.
Anything you can tell me about Brough, East Yorks (Petuaria)?
Petuaria is an odd one... It's a small Roman town, that replaced an earlier fort (that's fairly standard). But given its small size (as we currently understand it) it must have been pretty much ram-packed busy all the time. It's a combination port and ferry crossing over the Humber. as it straddles the line on the Ermine street all traffic going North South had to cross the river at this point. Continental goods were being brought in on boats, so likely an important market town. Oh and it had a flipping theatre as well! Excavations in the 30s and 40s revealed some of the city stone defences, including gates that featured some design ideas that appear over in Germany. There's also the possibility one of the corner towers featured some kind of platform for possibly a siege weapon like an Ongar or a Ballista! It's been much overlooked by later historians, so there's probably still a lot to learn about it. Though there is currently a local society who are raising the profile and pushing for further investigations.
I'd walk the Appalachian Trial, it's been a lifelong dream of mine since I first read Bill Bryson's *A Walk in the Woods* back in secondary school.
Yes this would be top of my list if I didn't have child care commitments at home. 👍
Bring them along, I cannot see anything going wrong at all...
He's 8. His Mum and his school would probably complain. 😂
School of Life taken to a new level
He gets like 52 weeks off every summer right?
Same but mine would be the PCT! I still hope to do it once the kids are 20+ and I'm 50s somewhere. We shall see!
I am just in the middle of my two years off work with enough savings to do anything I want. Year 1, I travelled all around the world without a single worry about costs. Zero work, all relax. Now, I am one month into year 2. I stay at home and focus on self development. I started going to the gym, I learn Chinese, I try to run a business, I read books and learn all the other things I never had time for. I am busy from 7am to 10pm every day and I love it. Interesting to see other people's answers. Do not waste your youth saving up for later. You never know what's coming. Maybe you'll die in a car accident in two years and all that saved up money will be worthless to you. Maybe you'll get cancer and never get to enjoy your retirement. Even if you do, you probably won't be as healthy as you'd like. If you have a chance, enjoy the best years of your life.
Super interesting! I want to do this as well but scared about taking the plunge! Curious to know your monthly outgoings and how much you saved up before taking the time off? I probably have enough savings to last me two years if I'm economical but would have to make lifestyle cutbacks. And it would scare me ending up with £0 in the end. Although I do have decent equity in my house as well
I mean it really depends. In Asia you can live comfortably for £1k a month, in the US you need at least £5k. I spend probably £3-4k per month on average but I could definitely cut it back a bit (currently living in London). I had enough saved for at least a couple of years, maybe 5 if I budget properly. One of the things I’m learning currently is stock trading, I already made enough for another couple of years.
i'm hoping the shares i just bought in gamestop will pay for me to do the same as you. The squeeze in 2021 paid for my eye surgery, this next one hopefully happening soon will set me up for life
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I don’t think the person above was saying spend ALL your money. For example, my partner and I have been saving for a house for a while but last year we quit our jobs and went travelling in the US for a few months. Now we’re back working and have almost finished saving, but I’m forever grateful we ticked something off our bucket list before we’re retired. Obviously we’re incredibly fortunate to be able to have done that, but the point is to not just spend your younger years saving for old age and to instead still live and take risks.
Thanks, that's exactly what I meant. Glad to hear you enjoyed the travels around the US!
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I still save up. I am not reckless, I do not spend ALL my money. I just mean it needs a balance. Do not waste your youth not enjoying the present, saving all of it for the future.
Assuming you own your house outright I'd be doing a mixture of futureproofing the house and travelling. All those DIY jobs and saving money in the future (insulation, solar panels, veggie patch, etc).\ It's also worth spending some time finding and cultivating hobbies and local groups. If you don't have something to keep you occupied retirement can drive you up the wall.
My mum did a degree and then a masters in fashion. Something she had always wanted to do. The curious thing was she came out of it the other side better off than when she started due to the financial help she got for being a mature student and work she was paid to do etc. Personally, I'd learn some sort of skill or rebuild a classic car. It depends how much money I actually had. If I had money in the bank, I'd continue to work, and that money would be used to pay down our mortgage.
I took up fishing, bought computer games and got hooked on Reddit.
I'm big on life experiences. I'd book an extravagant holiday somewhere I've always wanted to go. I'd book festival tickets and concerts because I love things like that but can't always afford it or get time off. I'd also get the house done up, most of walls could do with a freshen up paint and maybe get some new white goods for older appliances and some new furnishings.
I would do a yoga teacher training course
That's such cool idea! I already have my gym instructor qualification so maybe I will do something like that.
Oh, nice!
I'd mix experience in with something that can open up the options once it's over, for example: Experience: I'd do some of the stunning long distance paths we have here and in Europe. Coast to Coast, Pennine Way, West Highland Way and South West Coast path to name but a few. Chunk them up over X days and then return for your childcare commitments. I'd also look to do some of the European ones that are serviced by cheap airports, so Camino Santiago, Tour du Mont Blanc. Earnings: what has your career been in? I'd learn some new skills over the year so that when I return to part time, my earning potential is higher for less hours.
Yes this all makes sense. I hiked the Ridgeway last year and have my eye on a couple of other trails. My career was Army/Police. I'm 50 now so I want to put all the shifts and violence behind me but maybe work in the same sphere. But I need to decompress first!
Being ex forces/police, I assume you've been relatively fit? If I was to choose work career aside, I'd go into ultra/trail running and fitness coaching. It's a fairly low barrier to entry, especially if you're already a bit older and can study. I'm guessing your background would transfer well. I work in marketing but have qualifications that I did in lockdown, that I use to part time coach a run club. Might also help with the decompression - fitness massively improves general physical and mental wellbeing.
from this post I can see that almost everyone is being severely limited from their dreams, hopes and desires, by a society deliberately depriving them of the money it takes to seek out fulfilment.
That's very very true.
I no longer work and just enjoy not having to be rat racing every day. I’ve gained so much pleasure from things like being able to redecorate rooms at a gentle pace rather than cramming DIY stuff into evenings, weekends and annual leave and resenting every second. I love spending all day pottering in my garden. I love waking up on a cold and miserable morning and just turning over and sleeping for another hour. I love meeting up with friends for lunch in really nice places and going first class on the train to London as a treat. I love going for a swim or a walk when I feel like it and not putting it off because I’m so tired from being at work..…and so on. I’m grateful that I’m able to do these things now rather than having to do gruelling shifts in a hospital. I guess I’m saying that if I only had a year off I’d spend it just enjoying relaxing, recharging, and knowing I had a bit of money for doing nice things in that year. I also write and do a lot of art/craft so I’m never bored - I guess with no interests or hobbies, my way of life could become boring. Obviously it wouldn’t suit everyone.
This sounds amazing.
First retirement? what about second ~~breakfast~~ retirement?
I don't think he knows about second retirement....
Same q I had though. What is a first retirement?
I have retired from my main career as I have earned my pension, including a lump sum that allows me to to take some time off BUT for long term comfort I would like to something else for work. I am only 50 and can't imagine not working again but it's good to get a break
Oh god thats awesome. Your other job pisses you off, you can just laugh like a maniac and leave!
I’d join a golf club and try to get down to low single figures!
I've told my wife if I ever think about joining a golf club, that's her cue to take me out back and shoot me.
Go to France and cycle around the alps for a year..
I'd probably get an allotment and also work in my garden as I love gardening. Try and get some fruit and vegetables going. I'd go to the gym or excersise first thing 5 days a week. Either weights with a bit of cardio or swimming outdoors or long walks in the countryside. Would think about doing a decent cooking course. If there was one in France that was well received I would think about that. I would think about doing some volunteering too. I would also make time to read. Few trips to my favourite place which is Cadiz in Spain.
Would love an allotment and am on the waiting list. Was the 47th in line two years ago :(
I’d explore my local area more. Take those footpaths I’ve never been down. I’d volunteer more. And I’d take up some classes in things outside my comfort zone like painting or learning sign language or something. At the end of the year I’d hope to have enriched myself, not my bank balance.
Definitely. This is the answer I was looking for. There is more to enrichment than just money.
take a big trip and go live somewhere sunny for a few months 😃
Whatever you do, remain physically active. Use the time to develop some form of exercise (aka Self Care) into a habit. Add in a hobby, creative of some sort - language / music / crafting etc And do some personal development - learn additional skills and please please please drink some champagne.
That all sounds amazing! I will do all that!
Surgery (knee) and possibly retrain
A year of Xbox and pool.
Travel, a lot. And gym.
I'm lucky enough to have 6 weeks off in my kid 30s whilst changing careers. I'm spending time with the kids and doing all the diy jobs around the house that I don't have the time or energy for when im working full time.
Do some hiking, even day trips.
Probably waste it in a pub.
Yes if it was the 90s I would be tempted but pubs are shit these days.
Don’t get me wrong. I wouldn’t *want* to… just know I probably would.
I went from a full time permanent role to consulting which is much more part time in nature! I got a dog. We spend a lot of time exploring both the neighbourhood and further afield. I brushed up on cooking skills, now have a lovely garden, and spend a lot of time with friends. I also started to camp in increasingly more remote spots. And I learn languages for fun.
That's so cool! I already wild camp. Maybe I might look at some personal development so I can do some consulting.
Would definitely do some travelling, working around childcare. Would like to get into a few hobbies - learn a new instrument, some art classes Take a lot of day trips to see more of the UK and do some walks. Volunteer - have done a few different roles and all very worthwhile
Volunteer for sure. Ideally locally but also helping animals abroad would be great
I'm thinking of a food bank. I have seen some people in food poverty and it's horrible.
Get golf lessons, 3 times a week Go travelling with my new found skill playing on some pretty courses
Well, I will be doing that from August, as I'll have over 12 months of maternity leave. So... I'll be taking care of the baby. Also, we have a big family holiday planned next year with baby. Really looking forward to it :)
Finally get good at CS2, and be number 1 customer at my local Greggs
I'd see what things I've always wanted to do are that require fitness to do. E.g climb a mountain, cycle up a col from the tour de France etc as with a year off you can put in all the training you need, and you won't be too old to not be able to do it.
Have another baby. That’s what I always do with a year off and money in the bank.
Work on all the hobbies I never have enough time for (write a novel, painting, photography etc). Get a coach and dedicate a year to training for an Ironman triathlon. Actually see my friends and family. Keep on top of the weeding in the garden.
I have done this off and on for a while. A lot depends on you, what you like and what you need in your life. I like and miss people, so I always end up doing some form of part time 'work' - charity work, helping with mate's businesses, volunteering. All of it has been fun. Just working in a cafe, for a mate, for 1-2 days a week has been fun, equally serving at a shelter. I have then mixed this part time with personal interests, like some DIY, cycling (with my local club), yoga, video gaming etc. Working a couple days at a local shelter makes me love even more spending the whole of the next day video gaming. It is like I have earned it. And yes, I am old and still love my video games. I just really enjoy the 1-3 days a week pseudo work mixed with indulgent hobbies. I deliberately make sure I stay active, relatively fit, happy and not lonely. Don't think of it as time "not working", but time to do what you want. Hope it helps. Enjoy the time.
I've had the past year off work, pretty much. Unless you find something active to go, you will get bored and lazy very quickly. Try to meet friends. Try to go for at least one walk a day. Take the kid. Find a creative activity to do, like painting, drawing, writing, making candle jars, whatever. Keep your mind stimulated by doing puzzles like jigsaws and so on.
Retrain as a forest school leader, and get some more qualifications for DofE expedition leading. Not sure what I'd do in the winter, though.
We bought our first house last year. It has a big pool in the garden that is basically a concrete hole in the ground. Needs a ton of work to get it back to a pool. So I would either work to do that, or fill it in and landscape over it. I have also recently started getting in to woodworking. Built our dining room table. So I would develop that hobby. Our shed is falling apart so I would also build a new one. That and take up brewing beer. Maybe get a job at a cool local brewery part time. I have a 3 year old. So I may swap all of that to take him out of nursery and become a stay at home Dad until he goes to school. I am sure I could get some of the landscaping done with him 'helping out'. Enjoy!!!
Drugs and hookers
I back all the suggestions to go on an adventure and learn new skills that interest you. I'm in a similar position and signed up for the Clipper race around the world, with no prior sailing experience. Many people I've met in training have a similar forces/police background and are looking for something more atm.
Take a short trip, and think about your next purpose and new identity. When you lose those two things life becomes chaotic fast.
I'd like to ski for a long period in winter. I'd get bored in the autumn and spring. Summer I would try and do as many music festivals and holidays that I could find friends to go with me. If money's no object, I'm paying to make that job of convincing easier.
I would do fuck all.. Being able to do fuck all for a change would be glorious.
I'd be on the first flight to Japan for the maximum amount a visa would allow.
I have recently just had a year off. I came into some money and decided, fuck it. I just did dad things. Took the kids out, learned a few new diy skills like carpentry, basic electrics, flooring, etc. I spent the summer in the garden tending my veggie patch and the holidays reliving my youth vicariously through my kids. I walked everywhere with the dog. I reconnected with my wife and fell in love all over again. I felt well and truly free.
Spend most of the time with my dog and catching up on DIY. If any secret millionaire / billionaire wants to send me any cash let me know!
I'd probably keep hold of it and then retire forever when I could afford to. I'd struggle to get back into it after a year off.
Get in shape
Currently selling my house. Been valued way more than I thought. Gonna fuck off travelling for a bit once it’s done.
Bunch of hookers and cocaine.
Hire a team and finally make that comic I've been slowly working on over the years!
Go to thailand Train MuayThai, MMA and live on a beach Disciplined during the day Party sex and a lot of drugs at night
I'll tell you what I'd do, man, two chicks at the same time, man. I And I think I could hook that up, 'cause chicks dig a dude with money.
Get qualified
I'd get on my bike with a pack full of stuff and not look back.
I’d probably just do nothing, spend time with family but I’m sure that year would fly by and I’d be back to work before I knew it wishing that I’d done something meaningful
Go fishing
My loved ones work weird schedules l, I'd definitely make more of an effort to se them. If I didn't have a 1 year old and another on the way I'd take up wildlife photography. I will once they're older and more self reliant and less liable to break expensive things.
Travel and make music
Buy a quality shed, buy mid level tools and take wood work classes
It a campervan, rent out the house and take my dog travelling around the uk
This would be one of the best moments of my life! I will travel most of the countries in the world that I like the most to visit. Will also build a business or invest so the cash in my bank still growing while traveling. Will definitely also buy a Town House that has a Seashore view and stay for as much as I'd love to.
I’d think about some working holidays I really fancy doing and some really interesting volunteering opportunities. There’s a castle in France (guedolon) that they are building from scratch using medieval techniques. You do need to camp if you volunteer there. Waterway Recovery Group runs week long camps (and weekends) that are really satisfying. I bet the national trust or BTCV has projects and many charity shops are desperate for workers. I’d also cycle everyday as it boost my mood and tones my legs. I’d consider a long walking or cycling project, such as the west highland way or doing the south west coast path in stages. I’d also complete some DIY projects, travel to see old friends and catch up properly, and my garden would look amazing.
Good question I'd spend 6 months travelling south-east Asia The other 6 months I'd get myself a dog and spend loads of time with it and my family too
Finish my first game and do some bike touring during term time. Take the kids on some good adventures during the holidays.
Travelling isn't out if you take the kids with you! I wouldn't say popping out for more than 4 days with them at a time makes sense as they get bored and you need to pack too much for longer, but take your bebes to Rome, or Athens, or somewhere fun. Pop out for a couple of days at a time here and there. Do a physical hobby the rest of the time so you're not twiddling your thumbs.
Yes I can and definitely will do holidays, it's just that I expected a deluge of "Move to Thailand for a year" comments which are sadly out.
What are the ages of your kids? When I was on Mat leave (obviously your will be older) I was popping out with the little one all the time, as they are free to fly under two. For 4 days I just took a backpack so it felt like a breeze! Enjoy your year off whatever you do.
Makes me glad I had kids young. By the time my youngest is 18 I'll be 44. Once I retire, I'll be off on my jollies 💪😂
All that travelling and living the high life sounds like it would get old quickly. I could quite happily spend the year mucking about and entertaining my kids. Playing silly dad games with my babies sounds like a great way to spend time.
As I don’t have children I’d travel, do some hiking, but if I did have children I’d just invest the money and continue working, business as usual.
Travel
You can take up a new hobby or do something you were afraid to try before.
I'd love to say I'd do something exciting, but I've been temporarily unemployed for 6 weeks (decided to take a break after quitting my job before starting the next one) and I've done absolutely fuck all with my time.
I'm not near retirement sadly so if I had a year's salary in the bank and didn't have to work for a year right now, I'd still work. Savings for the future are important for me as I never want to be in any kind of financial trouble. When I hit 62 I'll have done 40 years in my company and I'll be out the door forever (if not sooner). Would I do part time work or just enjoy retirement? Too early to say, right now I'm pretty hobby-less so I'd definitely pick up a few. When my Dad retired he lost a ton of weight as he didn't have any hobbies so he just walked everywhere.
Going back to work
Coke and prostitutes
Outsource so much shit. I’d hire a cleaner and personal trainer and basically spend my time looking after my health and having fun.
Probably a through-hike of the Appalachian trail, have wanted to do it since I was a kid but from a financial / time perspective it’s impossible for my circumstances.
Its not that crazy let’s assume average nursery teacher salary is £35k Need two teachers per 10 children on average. 70k per year per 10 children 7k a year per child £600 a month per child. This is with no overheads and no other costs built into it. Not unreasonable for it to be double based on that unfortunately.
If I could do that and had no plan, I'd probably NOT do it and throw every penny into my pension so when it is time, I can do it properly (and have a plan ready then)
I would travel with my dogs, do up my house, chase hobbies, volunteer, be more social and spend more time outside in nature. I think in general, I'd probably be much much happier and then only having to work part-time after, sounds great. You only have one life.
Was almost in this position. Had really good maternity pay for 9 months. Planned on doing a bookshop tour. Made a list of lovely cafes and bookshops to visit when my daughter was small enough to carry everywhere. Unfortunately she became unwell at 8 weeks and was in and out of hospital. The maternity was a much needed cushion. She’s better now and I’m going back to work.
I volunteer at a local wildlife rescue around work; I think I'd increase my time spent there.
Try and get a proper routine in the gym going, travel a little bit, some nice days out. See friends.
Honestly I'd develop one of my hobbies (of which I have many) and see if I could get it to be profitable so I wouldn't have to go back to part time in a year. I've dabbled in various forms of crafting (woodwork, knitting/crochet, metal work, sewing, glass work, 3d printing, laser cutting) usually in response to a specific need. While I got proficient at them never had the time to really go full in and make any money. It would be nice to really dive in to one of them again. Part of the problem is I like making things but then they take up space, so if I can get good enough that people are willing to buy pieces that would be like a win, win, win!
I'd buy a second house and do it up.
Travel.
I would schedule time for a few things I want to achieve and do them daily. 1. Fitness 2. Study, like language or other skill 3. Leisure, like reading or gaming. 4. Career aspiration, like write a book or research market. I've tried to do these sort of things this year on a smaller scale (evenings and weekends as I have a full time job), and when scheduled in and done routinely it's surprising how much progress you can make over a long time period. Day to day it doesn't seem impressive or worth it, but the consistency adds up eventually.
Build a caterham 7. Again
Work part time to help further push that money and spend more time on quantum gastronomy and maths studying.
Buy a 2 seater car, with a solid body but needing cosmetics and mechanical work. Then potter away on it.
I'd love to have a couple of years to study. I'm currently doing a distance learning degree at a snails pace while working and looking after the kids. I'd love to be able to pack in work, and go and study properly, in person, and be able to focus on it fully
Same thing I did during COVID. Work on my call of duty and watch increasingly disturbing pornography
Based on lock down, sleep in everyday and wank a lot.
When I had a summer between jobs I just played PC games and went for runs. I also cooked a lot more, generally focussed on getting healthier and relaxed.
Complete pornhub
Travel and support my friends and family 🤍
I'd learn a new skill I'm passionate about.
I'd buy a small camper (or converted van) and travel around UK and Europe for fishing, hiking etc.
Take Ayahuasca, meditate, exercise, eat healthy, spend time in nature.
My old man bought the local pub when he retired. He was just spending a lot of time and saw the business could be improved so did. He then bought a bar near his place in Portugal and did the same over there. He’s not an alcoholic I promise lol
If I just got my years salary as an extra payment? Pay off my debt, invest the rest and carry on working. The savings in debt payments would massively improve my family's quality of life and I couldn't justify taking a year off when I could keep working, invest the extra money and make my kids better off in the long run. I'd be bored stupid after 2 weeks anyway
Travel Australia
Definitely travel. Travelling around the world not having to cram everything thing in a week or two and can take your time.
Also have a kid at school so I'd be planning a big 6 week get away for the summer holiday that his dad could join us on for 2-3 weeks, and another easter get away. Probably Thailand or America. Then the garden and house would be spruced up. I'd take over Christmas and spend most of December sorting that. Then I'd travel the UK every weekend visiting friends and family that I don't see as much as I'd like. Probably also do some crafts/ woodwork but doubt I'd get far cause as you can see, I'm very busy!
I'm way off retirement, but personally I'd become a fitness addict, swim every morning, then either gym or jog (weather dependent). I used to have time for that but with work, aging parents and life in general, I've found myself rotund and tired
Finish painting my 40k.... Or buy more and fish the year bigger pile of unpainted figure... I'd probably have to go back to work early as spent my lump sum on plastic.
I wouldn't take year off, just carry on. Get a role where you can enjoy time with your kids and build on your investments. Have fun & good luck out there
How old are you? Not far off retirement age? Good luck getting apart time job after stopping work. Personally I'm lucky, I enjoy the work I do. I'd maybe turn down requests from customers but I mostly make what I want now anyway. I guess maybe I'd use the momey to travel a bit more than normal
I would honestly find a 20 hour a week job that I want to do and do that. I retired twice and am now heading for my 3rd. It is nice to have some structure as well as some extra money.
Make a bunch of short films or work on getting my feature made. I made my first short film this year and loved the experience, I'm making my 2nd in a few months. I'd love to commit to it 100% but it's just not financially realistic. But having the TIME to commit to it would be amazing - doing it on weekends after working 35 hour weeks can be a bit exhausting at times.
yo dude i read one of your comments like 9 years ago under a discussion of the film "creed" where you mentioned how you felt bad that ryan coogler was pursuing his dreams in filmmaking while you were the same age and i just wanted to say i think it's awesome you're actually making films now
Travel the world!
I'm currently doing this (year off, not the pension!). I cook well, exercise, see friends, read books, write things. As well as trying to find the least stressful work to do next year.
I would fully explore my creative side. Set up an artists studio for myself and bring along my writing materials. Have a go at making a comic book from scratch. Write and publish a short story. Paint my own Magnum Opus. I think it would all be pretty fun to push my imagination further and chill out.
Sleep
I was going to say travel because that's what I did when I hit 30 last year. I quit my job and went travelling for 15 months. But alas. Kids. Next for me would be hit up the hobbies, get really good at something or somethings I enjoy. Find local classes in skills I don't have and learn those. I would also spend and make time with family and friends. Whoever the most important people are in my life. Visit them, cook them meals, paint them a picture it doesn't matter. I'd show them they're appreciated and make them feel special while I have the time to do so. But again, I don't have kids. Probably look after your kid extra good. Spend lots of quality time with them. Take them on adventures to learn skills and meet people. Etc.
Do exactly the same as I did in lockdown. Nothing :)
bikepack round europe
Start going to some of the local craft groups and events that are all on 2-4 in the afternoon and finish some of the many 1/2 done projects stashed in the spare room. Volunteer for the local food bank and/or animal rescue place a couple of days a week. Start taking piano lessons again. I learned to play when I was a kid but haven't touched a piano in 20 years. Sign up for the basic Italian course at the local college. Make a dent in the ever growing to be read list of books. Finally play some of the games I got in the Steam Christmas sale. Start taking in foster kittens (if my current cats allow it) Only 20+ years to go until my first pension kicks in and I can probably go part time.
I would invest cash and still work. If long travelling is not an option which would be my first option , then why loose whole year of doing nothing? If working is not option than travel for few weeks a month when child care commitments not on the page, complete the baking classes, open my little baking at home business. 1 year of colleague not sure where that would bring you to not much you can finish in a year study wise.
I'd work on electronics and 3D design projects, have another go at app development and double-down on my Chinese study.
If you got a house work on it Or make more money while at home You would never know when extra cash might come on handy
probably sleep a lot in the day
I've got a few hobbies that could totally be my main gig. If I could just take some time off work, I'd dive into those hobbies and see where they lead. Then I could decide not to go back to work. I also wanna pick up a new skill and take a month off to travel with my folks to destinations they have longed to visit but now feel hesitant to explore on their own.