From someone with more than fifteen years of work experience, I can tell you that most jobs are not rewarding in themselves. A lot has to do with attitude and finding something that you really like to do. Most times, this something else will be outside work.

I would think that doing something like this site and your other blog brings you some pleasure. It is the same with me and my own site. It is something that I look forward to.

In addition, a lot has to do with your outlook about your job. There is a say that goes something like “You can not get pears from the Elm tree”. Unfortunatelly, if you are looking for the job to fulfill you, chances are that unless you work for a non-profit, you will still be left wanting.

Look for that somewhere else and you will be a happier man.

For me (no kids yet) it’s more about being my own boss than being physically “at home”, although my wife does enjoy having me at home when she’s home. A telecommuting job would be a good second choice.

As for “stability” – it’s a myth. An illusion at best. No 9 to 5 job is stable, and no work-at-home job is stable. I find that being the one who makes the financial decisions and knows what the budget looks like gives me more of a feeling of stability than any of my previous “real” jobs did…

Granted, there are huge, gigantic issues with being your own boss. You have to worry about things like scheduling yourself, setting priorities, evaluating your performance, and the temptation to stay in bed all day. And I do deal with toxic people from time to time (albeit on the phone). But it’s worth it, at least for me.

If you are a tech type, there are many ways to do 99% of what you do from a remote location.

Being able to work and produce without the burden of commuting is absolute heaven. The ability to check on your loved ones and give them a hug when you stop for coffee is priceless.

If you can’t telecommute all of the time, get a job where you can work from home part of the time. You will see that it makes a tremendous difference.

I am sure that you will think of many variations on this theme. Another point is that you may well accept less salary when you have another 3 or 4 hours of life to enjoy each day.

Good luck with your search!