Roadtrip, hang in there whatever you decide. I agree with the other posters; you make the decisions based on the information you have at the time. And everyone's decisions about situations are different. A few years ago I left a stable university job because I realized that I was very unhappy, working too hard and didn't have time for the things that did matter to me. I had the option of going out on my own as a consultant and it has been the best decision I've made--just like taking the job 14 years ago was the best decision before things changed there (it was my dream job at the time). My best friend was supposed to leave with me but she never did...the difference? I have 20 years at least until retirement--she has 5 or less. I couldn't stand the idea of 20 more years as I realized the political landscape as I advanced in my job didn't stop with problems with my boss, but went all the way to the top. I recently had a health scare and surgery (successful and I can't wait for my 6 weeks of purgatory--I mean recovery--to end!) and thought...hmm perhaps this wasn't a great idea because I pay my own health insurance now and if I don't travel, I don't get paid. However, I realized in my worries about my health that my life is better for the decision I made to work for myself and if I get to the point where I can't do that anymore, I'll find a new job that meets my needs at that time. I guess what I'm saying is that the bad part is most workers don't find themselves staying in 1 job for their whole career...and that's the good news too. The key is in knowing what matters and what works now for your situation and what your fall back plans can be (at least I need that for piece of mind). Whatever you decide you will find a way to make it work...and if not, just make sure you can ride your bike more--the escape is essential in bad situations!