Part-time work, semi-retirement?

My job is deadline driven, unpredictable, customer service oriented and super stress at times.  Last quarter of 2009 was the most challenging period in my entire working life.  I was so stressed up and worked up, the workload was a complete hell.  So, a very difficult decision was made back then, that I want to quit as soon as I received my *B in January.  Since then, I patiently counted down the day I will be FREED from all the stress. 

Finally, 1-Feb 2010, I tendered my resignation. 

My boss was shocked and persuaded me to stay.  And two days later, my MD talked to me, again trying his luck to make me stay.  I told them that I want to be a full time stay-at-home mother.  Offcourse they found it weird as my children are all grown-up now except for my 16 year old daughter who is taking her O-level this year.  I think they know that I'm making up reasons for my departure.  I simply cannot make myself telling them the truth.

Anyway, on Monday 22-February, to my amazement, my boss proposed that instead of quitting, I should work half a day in the morning, and return home every afternoon to be with my daughter.  What? It doesnt make sense!  If I cannot cope the 9-hours job daily, how can I cope in 4-hours?  "Offcourse you wont be doing what you are doing now, let me know what you can do within 4 hours and I will create a new port-folio for you.  You go home and think about it and let me know your decision tomorrow".  Oh dear.... he is so nice after all.

You know, I worked in a job where I thought it was impossible to work part time.  However, with the new port-folio (make sure its stresss-free) I reallized that I could fit into it quite well.  I definitely have no problems with having less corporate status.  It's fine with me.  I am someone who loves the part-time work option. 

So, I will be working part time effective from 1-April.  I know I will be loving it!  I love having more time at home and I love the lower pressure of my new port-folio as I get to leave at 12 sharp everyday and turn off the work mind.  The cut in pay will be shocking I guess, but I will get used to it in no time. For me, I think it's the best of both worlds.

So if you think you’re working too hard, take some time off to smell the roses whenever possible.  I'm smelling mine soon and hope the fragrance will last ....