[notfarnow]

I like Legion's points about "golden handcuffs". I sold my soul too, but I think I got a fair price. You don't necessarily need to find happiness and meaning in your work, as long as it gives you the comfort and security to enjoy your life. However, it sounds like you're not getting that, which is really tough and depressing.

My wife has changed careers 3 times in the past 5 years. Finally, she realized she wasn't going to be happy with any of it, and she went back to school. She just NEEDS to be doing something she feels good about. Maybe you are the same way?

It sounds like the RE industry might not be satisfying for you, even if you do find success there. Did I read that correctly?

What if you had to keep at your current job, but took night courses or something else that made you feel like you were making progress towards something better? "Digging a tunnel" can be as rewarding as the escape itself.

Finally, what does your wife think you should do?

Either way, that is a rotten situation and I wish you the best of luck.