What would you do in my situation?

[gekkexx]

Alright, I've been thinking about this for quite some time, but I decided maybe I could get some advice from relative strangers to see what your opinion is in regards to my situation.

I am currently living and working in Europe. Im working for a fantastic multinational company. I am making twice as much as I would be making in Canada. I originally came here for the experience since its one of these 'once in a lifetime' opportunities.

But I miss Canada. I miss the wide open spaces. I want my own house, my own car, I want to put down roots which I feel that I cannot do over here.

However, if I return to Canada, there is absolutely no guarantee of finding a job in the area that I am in (and I am willing to live anywhere in Canada, or at least any major city). Also, with the economic situation as it is, maybe I might find myself in the position of not finding a job.

What would you do if you were in my place?

[dondada83]

Stick it out.

Making twice the $$$ > "missing Canada"

Taking the risk right now to come back to Canada is not worth it.

[kkvvpp]

Alright, I've been thinking about this for quite some time, but I decided maybe I could get some advice from relative strangers to see what your opinion is in regards to my situation.

I am currently living and working in Europe. Im working for a fantastic multinational company. I am making twice as much as I would be making in Canada. I originally came here for the experience since its one of these 'once in a lifetime' opportunities.

But I miss Canada. I miss the wide open spaces. I want my own house, my own car, I want to put down roots which I feel that I cannot do over here.

However, if I return to Canada, there is absolutely no guarantee of finding a job in the area that I am in (and I am willing to live anywhere in Canada, or at least any major city). Also, with the economic situation as it is, maybe I might find myself in the position of not finding a job.

What would you do if you were in my place?

We are quite the opposites! I'm working here at a great job, but I want to go abroad and have applied to jobs that pay less then 1/2 what I currently make.

For me it would depend on how bad I want to come home and how much savings I have. In your spot, given the economy, I would likely just bear it for a while more and stay there. Stay there until you can't take it anymore, get bored, miss home to much or get a job offer.

I would start updating my resume and look for positions in my field in Canada ASAP.

[Mayoo]

r u really making twice as much ? what is the inflation over there ? cause even if you make twice as much, r u paying twice as much for expenses, rent, gas etc etc ??? ... if not then stick there and apply to Canadian companies for senior level jobs

[gekkexx]

Well, if I must add this remark, I did not accept the position because of the amount of money I would be making. In fact, I flew out for the interview, and got the job offer the day of the interview (after going through several rounds of technical interviews) and I accepted that day as well. I did not get my formal contract and salary until 2 weeks later.

So, it was definitely not the money that made me take the job, it was, again, for the experience. But I must admit, when I did get my formal contract, I was more than blown away with the salary.

[robster77]

I guess as well it would depend on where you live in Europe. For example, if you live in Dublin, London, Paris, Berlin, etc. as an example, the fact that you make twice as much doesn't mean much in terms of purchasing power. I too lived and worked in Europe at one point, and was always shocked at the cost of everything compared to home. For example, I ate a steak last night that cost me $10 at Metro. The same steak in Dublin would have cost me $25 Euros. So there you go.

I would say do what makes you happy. If you have played out Europe, then head home and lay down your roots as you said. You only live once right?

[heymikey]

My suggestion for you is to send me a PM with your contact and employment info, so we can trade places.

I'm serious.

[SpillOnAisle9]

There's an old expression:

Make hay while the sun shines.

Do both...try to live well under your means while making the big-bucks. Then
you can use the savings as a cushion when you come back.

[rems]

While you're still at that job, start searching/applying for jobs in Canada. If you find one that meets your requirements, then move back.

[gekkexx]

I guess as well it would depend on where you live in Europe. For example, if you live in Dublin, London, Paris, Berlin, etc. as an example, the fact that you make twice as much doesn't mean much in terms of purchasing power. I too lived and worked in Europe at one point, and was always shocked at the cost of everything compared to home. For example, I ate a steak last night that cost me $10 at Metro. The same steak in Dublin would have cost me $25 Euros. So there you go.

I would say do what makes you happy. If you have played out Europe, then head home and lay down your roots as you said. You only live once right?

Yes, this part I obviously understand. But I do not live in one of these major centers. And even when everything is said and done, Im still banking more than I would at home.

I don't know, but its highly likely I would have to switch careers when I come back to Canada. I've gotten myself into a very specialized field unfortunately or fortunately.

[heymikey]

I don't know, but its highly likely I would have to switch careers when I come back to Canada. I've gotten myself into a very specialized field unfortunately or fortunately.
You and I are at the same but different situation, if that makes any sense. I've also gotten myself into a very specialized area unfortunately or fortunately. Apparently, there are only 5 places in the UK (where I want to move) that do what I do. I'm thinking of switching to a less specific area that I also have experience in, but that means more people competing for the same job.

Despite being in a similar situation, it's also different as well. Unlike you, I don't want to settle down yet and live in wide open spaces. I'm sure I will one day but not right now. I want what you have -- that once-in-a-lifetime experience that you talk about.

So maybe we have some common ground. Send me a PM and we'll see if it's possible for us to switch places.

[sillysimms]

I think what it really comes down to is what is most important to you. Is it financial security with a good paying job or is it "putting down your roots" in the place that you want to do that (which for you sounds like it is Canada).

I don't think there is an easy or simple answer to the question and in the end it will ultimately be you that has to decide whether it is the money or the location that matters most to you.

Like others have said, you can start applying for jobs in Canada now and see what is available before you move back to test the job market for the types of positions you are looking for.

In the end, life is short and you have to do what will make you happy. Money isn't everything if you aren't completely happy with what you're doing/your location, etc. you have to decide whether you would be willing to give up some of the money if you'd be happier living somewhere else.

[Chanpod]

I'm in your situation except in the USA.
I'm always trying to look in Toronto yet never able to find anything and it will also be nowhere in pay/experience to what I'm dong down here.

I do recommend for people limiting themselves and not choosing to leave Toronto for work as an option to reconsider and give it a shot.

[Zug_Zwang]

What country?

Apart from the occaisional under-26 housing subsidies, I found living in Europe to be a significantly more expensive, well, everything except travel and gourmet food.

[Churo1]

I am confused to why a mature individual in your situation would come to RFD to ask for life guidance. Strange I must say. Quite strange sir.

[k__dam]

Would you rather be miserably rich, or happily poor? For me, i would rather 'build my roots' and come back, pending yhou have a solid plan to secure a career in canada.

I've given this alot of thought too, and my old boss once told me this, "you can make all the money you want, buy the fancy cars/toys, but in the end, what do you really have? When you're on your deathbed, will money bring you closure or your love ones/family that you may have started"