I’ve been offered a promotion abroad – is it worth the move?

In this latest iteration of our Work and Wealth Watch series, where money coach Luca Caruana gives his expert responses to all your questions related to money, work and wealth, we explore the psychology behind a healthy approach to personal finances.

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Dear Luca,

I work as a Graphic Design Manager at a gaming company based in Malta. When I first started studying graphic design, I never imagined I could be earning so much. Currently, I earn €90,000 annually, plus an additional €10,000 or so from freelance work with a small clientele.

My company also has offices in the US, and last week they offered me a higher position with an additional €40,000 added to my salary, excluding bonuses. This new role would require me to relocate to the US.

The salary would continue to grow, and by the second or third year, it could potentially double what I’m earning now. They’re even willing to subsidize my stay in the US.

As you might have guessed, from a financial perspective, this seems like a no-brainer. However, I’m more concerned about the impact this move would have on my young family. My son has just started Grade 1 and has settled in very well. Additionally, my wife has a great job here that she truly loves.

I find myself torn between what feels like the opportunity of a lifetime and maintaining our current status quo, which, admittedly, isn’t bad either.

Looking forward to your thoughts.

Opportunity Dilemma 

Luca Responds

Dear Opportunity Dilemma,

I often share a saying during the talks and workshops I hold:

“When faced with an opportunity, we have three choices:

1. Either we don’t realise the opportunity exists – and we lose it.
2. Or we see the opportunity but procrastinate, thinking it’s not the right time and that it’s better to act later – so we skip it.
3. Or we go all in and ride the wave.”

Admittedly, the third choice is not always the obvious one. Life, as you rightly pointed out, presents us with challenges and situations that can make taking an opportunity difficult.

I admire the fact that you are considering your family’s wellbeing. Many people today fail to do that and focus solely on their own self-fulfilment.

On the other hand, as you mentioned, this does sound like a fantastic opportunity that could significantly boost your CV and career overall. How feasible would it be to try the new role for a few months and reassess from there? If you enjoy the position and find it rewarding, perhaps your wife could explore job opportunities in the US as well.

It’s not a simple decision—change often comes with risks. However, would the potential rewards outweigh the disruption? The truth is, you won’t know unless you try. A short trial period in the US could give you valuable insight without requiring a full commitment upfront.

I hope this helps.

Luca
The Money Coach, from the Money Coaching Hub
CEO & Founder of Monipal
Measure your Money Health in 1 Minute: https://moneycoachluca.scoreapp.com/