conversation: User (imawakeimawake): "I am looking for some advise on how I'm doing with my career and my finances.  I'm always wondering of how I am progressing or if there are some changes I need to make.\n\nI've been with the same company for six years.  First job out of college.  They are a mid-level logistics company working the ports out of L.A./Long Beach.  Over a year ago, I was promoted to asst. manager.  \n\nCurrent salary:  $48000 with a bonus of usually a month's pay (last one was about $3500).  Health and dental insurance.  Matching 401k.\nI've never loved the industry.  Kind of always seemed like a job to me.  I have been a bit scared to leave as it's a steady job and i'm just not sure what is out there. \n\nSome background info:  28 yrs old.  Degree from a UC in economics.  Right now, I have little expenses.  Live at home in southern Cali, drive a car that has been paid off.  Might need a new car within next 2-3 yr.  Pays cell phone, car insurance to my parents as I'm still on their plan.  I do want to move out, but it is not something I'm super urgent about.  $30k in 401k, $6k in IRA, $16k in savings.  \n\nJust hoping for a middle class life.  I just don't know how I'd be if I lived on my own or with my girl.  Certainly my savings and contributions to savings would go down.  Should I be doing better?\n\nCan provide more info if needed.\n\n"
  Self: "It doesn't ever hurt to look around BUT please find something before your quit.  \n\nIt can be pretty nasty out there right now...  especially for the long term unemployed.  \n\n\nPersonally I'd keep saving and try to keep more and more of my cash.  You're doing well, but it appears for the area  you live in you're not making enough.  I'm not familiar with your industry."
  User (imawakeimawake): "That is exactly what I was thinking.  For sure, I need to make sure I have a new job before I move on.  What you said about the area I live in is a big factor in my uncertainty right now.  For this industry, I think I'm fairly close to the ceiling of what I can.  Maybe another $10000, but that is if I move to a more senior position.  I feel like I can live on my own now, but if I ever wanted to get myself a house, I'm hoping I'm married by then because I doubt I can carry a mortgage on my own."
  Self: "Sounds like you've got a level head.  I'd trust yourself to make the right decisions for you.  \n\nSet some goals for yourself.  Start with what you actually want to do, then work backwards to the present and set mid-term goals of how you can get to what you actually want to do.  Ultimate goal/10yr/5yr/1yr.  Evaluate at intervals to ascertain your progress.  \n\nDon't forget to include your lady friend in this.  For some reason whenever you start making plans if you don't include a person close to you it tends to push them away... so just be aware of that.  \n\nGood luck!  cheering you on from the IE!"
  User (imawakeimawake): "Haha, thanks for the heads up.  Can't even imagine how she'd react if she found out I was making financial plans without her factored in.  "
  