Originally Posted by Unregistered

It might be better to listen to your heart as no one else could make the decision for you. About 13 years ago, I took a leap of faith, quitted my job and pursued a phd. I like research and I am now a full prof in local university. I like the job and enjoy being with young and energitic people. My papers are well cited and useful to both academics and practitioners. That is something money cannot buy. I don't think maximizing my wealth is the most ineresting thing I could do with my life. My circle of friends are serious researchers and they are are not big spenders. We are pretty contented individuals. :-)

There are risks for not getting tenure... That's why you must be truly passionate...