9 to 5 in your late 30s. Is that so bad?

I saw this image on an Instagram story recently, and it got me thinking about a career move I made.

I’ve spent most of my professional life bouncing between full-time jobs and freelancing. Honestly, I can’t say which one’s better – it probably depends on where you’re at in life, both personally and professionally. But I can tell you which one gave me the most satisfaction while also scaring the hell out of me. Actually, I don’t even need to tell you: you can probably guess.

Freelancing is like a rollercoaster ride. It’s perfect for your early 20s, when you’re full of energy, but what about your late 30s? Do you start to feel a bit dizzy? Is it too late to freelance by then? Aren’t you supposed to be all settled, maybe running a business where you’re not so hands-on? Maybe, maybe not.

One big thing to consider is that it’s not just about work and social status – it’s about you. Honestly, it’s mostly about you and how you’re feeling right now. If you’re in a phase where you need to slow down a bit, spend more time with yourself, your family, and your friends, what do you do? Keep pushing and hope to retire early? Maybe it would be too late. Or do you lower your financial expectations and trade money for time?

For me, I’d pick time over money. Time is the most valuable thing we have, or maybe, the one thing we never seem to have enough of. Since becoming a parent, I’ve started valuing time more than money. Quality time with the people you love can mean so much more than having six, seven, or even eight figures in your bank account.The more money you chase, the more hours you have to work, and that means less time for yourself and your loved ones.

A 9 to 5 in my late 30s? Is that so bad? Not at all. As long as it gives me mornings and evenings with the people who matter most, it’s something I could do at any age.