__Is it just me or[does adulthood seem backwards?]()__ You work extremely hard to [buy that house]() and [load up your 401k and 529s.]() There’s an obvious trade-off — [your youthful energy.]() You [put hobbies aside.]() Your [blood pressure goes up.]() You miss a lot of bath times and weekday snuggles. __You miss[the Magic Window.]()__ That decade when you are the center of your child’s universe. ![Blog post image](/images/blog/image-3-1024x575.png) ## New to RadReads? Hi, I’m Khe Hy. Nearly a decade ago [I quit my 7-figure job on Wall Street]() to become a writer. I explore topics like [money](), [happiness](), [ambition](), [relationships](), [productivity]() and [more](). I also host [The Examined Life Podcast]() where I explore life’s thorniest questions with a different guest each week. My newsletter is the best way to experience my work. Sign up here: ## The “Peak Earnings” problem The timing of the Magic Window is problematic. It coincides with __[your Peak Earning Years.]()__ It’s when you become [a Managing Director](), Law Firm partner or [practicing surgeon.]() It’s when you _finally_ get to start [reaping the financial rewards]() from decades of hard work. You get the promotion and the raises. But your kids no longer need you the same way. ## Those rules weren’t going to work for me I wanted to enjoy the Magic Window fully but knew I’d have to take a steep pay cut. As they got older, I planned on re-focusing my time on making money. I could travel more. Have a boss who could yell “Jump!” (and I’d reluctantly say “How high?”.) But that trade-off would be worth it. Today, we are exiting the Magic Window with our eldest who is approaching 11 years old. __[I’m 45 years old.]() It’s time for the red line.__ ![Blog post image](/images/blog/image-4-1024x575.png) ## Do I need to re-enter the workforce? Thanks to [a stock market that has quadrupled]() the orange line is actually positively sloped. (Phew, I had no idea that would happen.) But I’m eager for new challenges and opportunities. Whatever that may look like. ## Are you a high-earner going through a career transition? Find purpose, navigate money scarcity and reimagine ambition with our Group Coaching program. [Apply today]()