Ah, I can relate to so much of this.

When I had just turned 30 I had the opportunity to work in management and leave study. I of course left my study and took a career in management in a field I was most comfortable with.

In the end I was made redundant -- had I stayed on at my University and completed it as I was working then I would still have had a job.

A decision I was cursing myself for many years. I loved that place.

Yet when one door closes another opens. Maybe not now, but definitely in the future. Had I opted for the educational route I wouldn't have the brotherhood, and I wouldn't have all these exciting opportunities ahead of me.

I'd have never braved self-employment.

So don't diss what may seem like the weaker choice. It might have been the stronger one in the end :)