AJ, this is a huge decision with a good list of pros and cons for both sides of the fence. I can see why it's so difficult for you.

It's definitely scary to head into the unknown, especially when it means giving up certain aspects of life that are huge bonuses with no guarantee of how it'll turn out.

Your last office sounds amazing - all those fun events etc. And a great group of people to support you, too.

Do you know if your new situation will offer these same great "pros"? It would suck to get to the new job and discover that the staff aren't as friendly or supportive or that there are no fun days and other things that made your previous situation feel like it was feeding your soul and providing you with family and community.

Have you had an opportunity to hang out in that environment for a while and get a feel for what it would be like to be with those specific people?

It could be a brilliant move for you, providing you with something so important that's missing for you. And it could also mean that you've given up a great opportunity working from home with all those perks and you're just as unhappy with your environment.

If you haven't had the chance yet, will they let you 'try it on' in some way first to get a feel for the place and the people?

Thank you so much for sharing your situation and Big Question. One thing I do know is that when making those kinds of decisions, it's essential to go inward and listen to that little voice, the one that really knows if something is right for you. And as long as you're not sure, if you're able to put off a decision for a little while I would suggest not doing anything that you can't easily UN-do until you're more sure.

Whichever thing you choose, the most important thing is that they both have great aspects about them so you can't go wrong. If you end up staying home, maybe you can create some 'Meet-ups' with others who work from home and have a lunch or coffee visit or group once or twice a week - or late day/dinner meetings so you're gone when your wife gets home and she can decompress while you're out hangin' with some pals.

"Meet-up" is a great place to find others who are looking for connections of all kinds. Maybe this could give you some of what you're missing and still allow you the numerous perks of working from home?

Thank you for sharing this, AJ, and for your beautiful shoutout and share of my piece on loneliness! I appreciate you rising to the challenge and offering this thoughtful piece, and am grateful to you for your kind words.

I'm looking forward to hearing how this turns out for you!