I could have written every word of this myself! I too struggle with all of my “potential” (labeled gifted as a kid, prestigious college, etc) being “wasted” by my life choices. I keep telling myself that there’s nothing wrong with taking a breath as I get out from under the absolute grind that the last few years of my life has been. Will I want something meaningful to fill the time? Yes, but a 9-5 job is not that thing. When my very hardworking husband has time to travel, I want to be able to drop everything and go. If my kids need something, I don’t want to have to rearrange work that I don’t have a financial need for. I am trusting that my next pursuit will reveal itself to me, and actually, that’s starting to happen with my writing! You will find yours!