How Much Am I Actually Worth (In Terms of Salary)

I sometimes wonder.... am I underpaid? Overly underpaid? I know I am not overpaid. I know what I am paid now is sufficient (not lavish and only just comfortable) to see me and family through. My bills are paid on time, my only loan has a very clean track record (save for 2 or 3 Januaries of which I have missed the deadlines because I forgot that my post dated cheques have run-out, but never been fined), my other loan which is in a joined name is also now back on track, my credit card balance is way below 50% of its limit, I pay my zakat (insya Allah & alhamdulillah), I never missed my meals (unless of course I am fasting), I treat the kids when it is due, I go for holidays once a year (where and when and how depends on the circumstances), my kids are clothed, fed, educated, entertained and loved (now that last one should be given regardless), I have performed my umrah and insya Allah, Haj (have to postponed it until baby is more than a year old).

But when people come to know the monthly salary that I am paid, especially those who are in the same profession and/or industry, they would shake their heads profusely and tell me to move on as I shall surely be paid at least 50% more than what I am getting now. And when I browsed through job advertisement, most with 50% lesser years of experience required are paying at least as much as what I am getting. Headhunters are offering me almost double.

So, what is it with me being so loyal with this company and yet people from outside are willing to appreciate me more? I have been with this organisation for 14 years and I have seen it going through changes, mergers, expansion, taking overs, transformations...... I enjoy what I am doing and most of the people I work with. I travel quite extensively and my exposure to challenges are more than most legal advisors/lawyers of the same years of service would have encountered. I deal with big names in the industry. Here, I got to perform my prayers in peace and on-time. The place is only 10 minutes drive from home, 20 minutes if the traffic is really bad. I can walk home everyday (30 mins walk) when it is not raining or too dark.

The only thing that I dislike most these days is the Management's way of making decision. And how bad they are at recognising efforts and commitments. Most decisions are made or influenced by one person. If only that could change, I wouldn't even think of leaving and would serve this company until I'm 55 or longer, if required. And better too!

And I think I am worth at least 30% more.