My son is 22. He lives with me currently. He doesn’t have his GED and has never worked. I’m a teacher, and have supported him up until now. I’ve encouraged him to get a job and an education over the years, but he’s shown no interest. Recently, I have been offered a job at an international school overseas. The salary and benefits are currently far better than my current position in the U.S.
My son wanted to go with me overseas, but is too old to get a dependent visa. I told him this was an amazing opportunity for me and he needed to start acting like an adult and get a job. My friends say he isn’t ready to live on his own, that I’m being selfish, and now I’m second guessing myself.
He’s starting to take initiative since my announcement I was taking the new job. He’s studying for the GED and almost ready to take it, has researched what type of work he wants to do,and the places he can work. He’s even found apartments in the area that he can live in.
I’m going to help him pay for the move, pay the security deposit for his apartment, and give him enough extra for the first month until he gets paid before I leave. My sister lives nearby and can help him if he needs anything that can’t be solved by calling me. She will also check on him periodically. Finally, he’s been alone before when I’ve been on vacation and has been fine.
So, am I selfish for taking this job? Im paycheck to paycheck now. The new job will give me some breathing space. What do you guys think?