Need help, another big decision

[cjstringer]

Ok, here's my situation. My current job is the easiest thing I have ever done. My drive to work is less than 15 minutes. My hours are very workable, and often times a 6 hour day yields 8 hours of pay. I use the term work very loosely as I spend a LOT of time on here and doing almost nothing but browsing the web. My current position is with one of the worlds largest automation and software controls companies. It is very stable, decent benefits, 401k matching, the works.
I interviewed last week with a local, mom-and-pop based engineering firm that does very similar work to what I do now, but the work is actually much more intense. You earn a base salary, but bonuses have to do with how well you do on each project you work. Good project, good bonus. Bad project, no bonus. Benefits are close, but not the same. No 401k matching. Not totally sure of the stability of the company as they have lost a couple employees to my current employer, and we have lost a few to them recently also.
My question is, would you leave a very cushy job that required minimal work (this is the part that makes me bored and sometimes unhappy now as I feel underutilized) to go to another that required some extended days and a lot more work, but would push your potential and definitely expand you "skill set"?
I'm very nervous about the change, as the pay raise will be minimal at best, but the potential is there. I have been in the same spot for over a year now and have had very little opportunity to improve or develop any new skills. I want to learn more and feel satisfied that I have done work at the end of the day, but I'm nervous to be leaving something so secure and stable.
Sorry for the book, but any thoughts are appreciated.

 

[tibygrrl]

It sounds like even though your current company has a lot to offer, you must not of been too happy with them if you were looking for another job in the first place. If I were you, I would take the new job. Even though you'll work harder, it will probably make your day go 10 times faster. Also, I have job as well where I can spend 8 hours a day browsing the web if I feel like it. I too have been looking to take my skills somewhere else...to make more of myself. I say, you may have already answered your question, take the new job! You will always be nervous accepting a new job anywhere you may go...so shoot for the stars and see what u can get! Good luck whatever u choose to do!

 

[Kenp1972]

It's up to you. If you think that this new job will be better for your future and your career, go for it. It sounds like the job you have now, while easy, is a dead end.

 

[adragonfly]

As nice as it can be to be able to be online all day, it really doesn't do much for your personal growth. I recently had to make a similar decision - stay at the place where I can goof off at my computer for most of the day or accept a new job that would keep me very busy, probably not pay much more, and would evnetually require some overtime. I chose to take the new job...

When you're in a position that doesn't challenge you and put your skills to good use, the day can drag on and on forever. Plus, you have no motivation to learn new things or even to use the knowledge you already have. Brains are like muscles... you have to use them to make them strong. Otherwise they just shrivel up and waste away. I say go for the new job... stimulate your mind!

 

[Syzygy]

Hi, guys and gals!

I agree with Ari. Growth is everything in life. If your current job does not challenge you (regardless of how high it makes your post count), get one that does!

I, fortunately, have a job which provides both challenge and a bit of goofing. Classes, though, trim my time!

 

[adragonfly]

Hi Syz! Glad to see you around!

 

[Syzygy]

Glad to be around!