Oh yes! I think it happens to most.
I've seen friends buy little red convertibles, divorce their wives, and find 20-something brainless babes.
From a very early age, I had a number of very strong passions. I got hooked at about age seven in the one passion that became my life-long career. But, several passions could just as easily have become my career. Twice I've strayed from my chosen career. Twice I've lost my shirt. I may still do it again, and I'm not young anymore.
I don't have the passion for this field I had 40-some years ago. I can't even spell most of the new acronyms that define my life. I certainly can't see these items I work with, without a microscope.
But today, and for at least the last 10 years, one of the main parts of my job is counseling/mentoring people in their 20s, 30s, 40s, and 50s who are experiencing what you are going through. They range 3 or 4 pay grades above and below me.
I probably spend half my day counseling and teaching -- not the technology we work with, but about life. Don't let anything get you down, no matter how hopeless it might look. There is incredible help available, and there are incredible opportunities, especially with the economy in the shape it is currently in.
Even though I've failed at times, I've been very successful at other times. Don't be afraid to look at other options. Don't be afraid to walk away -- just remember, if you do, you should never look back. It's over. It's done. You can't lament. You can't change the past. But, most important of all, don't take anybody down with you. Don't lay a guilt trip on anyone else.
PM me, and I'll be glad to talk. or otherwise to act as a sounding board.
Ken
