People really are more caring and supportive here; even disagreements and disputes are generally rather civil. It's a nice change from other social media outlets that have become rather toxic over the past couple years. Whatever the case, hopefully it lasts!

Yeah, worries like bills, rent/mortgage, medical care, etc, those never go away, but they do become more manageable. Maybe it's just the fact that I'm more positive now and generally happier, but I stress about these worries a lot less. Sure, some months I cut it pretty close on paying bills, but I think the fact that I enjoy life more balances out the stress and doesn't let it overwhelm me. Even the best keepers in my profession barely make enough to live on, but there is a very low turn-over rate because we are doing what we love; we aren't in it for the money. Even if it makes life MORE challenging, changing your life can be good for your mental health. Just having fun and a positive outlook on your life can make these problems trivial (my wife and I joke that if all else fails, we just move into a trailer park or something; we'll still find a way to live life happily).

You don't necessarily have to quit your job to start the change either! Just start deciding what direction you want to go in. Your outlook on your job may even improve; sure it might still be the same crappy job, but at least now you have some idea what you are working towards and the job feels a little more worthwhile. It's one of those things that doesn't happen overnight (changing your whole life is a huge deal) but it's totally worth the effort!