CAREER MOVE: TO STAY OR NOT TO STAY

I have the opportunity right now to apply for a job but I'm having a hard time pulling the trigger.


The job has good hours, would expand upon a set of skills that I have, and would put me on a good career track. Title wise, it is lateral at best, but that isn't what is holding me back. What is making this decision so hard is that right now, I've had more time to spend at home with my family. This is a time of young children that I know is temporary, but I miss the challenge and intensity of my last job. 


I know that job won't be there forever, but I also don't want to stay out of the full time work force for too long. This is a challenge that many people with career aspirations face. Should I "lean in" like Sheryl Sandberg or take a temporary step back? And will the temporary step back hurt me in the long run? 

When you take a step back or make a lateral move, I think there are still some things you must do to stay relevant and current:

Stay knowledgeable - keep up to date on the current medications and trend in your field

Stay active - participate in your national organization as much as possible

Network - keep building relationships and keep the lines of communication open. 

Are you facing a similar challenge?