what should I keep in mind when considering a job with long hours?

It’s the Thursday “ask the readers” question. A reader writes:

I currently work in the private sector, but lately I’ve been feeling dissatisfied with the thought of spending my whole career working just to increase shareholder value. My employer and many other companies in my field have demonstrated zero loyalty or investment in employees, with multiple rounds of layoffs and limited-to-no raises or professional development opportunities. The one good thing about my job is that the benefits and work-life balance are pretty good.

Recently, I’ve applied for a few project-based jobs for nonprofits using my existing skillset. These positions would work on specific, mission-based projects I care deeply about. I feel genuine excitement when thinking about being in one of these roles and contributing to the cause they serve. Being project-based roles, they would last less than two years, so I wouldn’t necessarily be committing to this field for the long haul if I hate it.

The big downside of these roles is work-life balance. It seems 50-hour weeks are considered normal in this field, and during busy periods 60-70 hour weeks are expected. Weekend work is also common, even outside of the busy periods. When I interview, I’ll ask what the hours are like at this particular organization, but it seems likely that they’ll be in the same ballpark as other organizations.

I think I’ve only worked more than 50 hours in a week once in my life, and in my current role the “busy season” means staying until 7 pm a couple days a week for 1-2 months. I have no experience working long hours for a sustained period.

Some potentially relevant information about me: I’m early-30s, healthy, single, no kids or pets. I do have an active social life and multiple hobbies that I recognize I may have less time for if I’m offered and accept one of these jobs. I’m also actively dating and trying to find a long-term romantic partner to settle down and (eventually) have children with.

What should I keep in mind when thinking about the time commitment required by this role? What is it actually like to work that much? Am I crazy to consider doing something like this in my 30s?

Readers, what’s your advice?

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