I've been at similar sounding cross-roads a number of times in my career. For me, the way that I've thought about this question changed a lot after 9/11. I lost a bunch of friends and colleagues. It was all of a sudden. Out of nowhere. For me, and for them. Ever since, I try and live life as fully and well as I can. Sometimes that has meant maximizing income. Other times it's meant passion projects. I've been lucky in that I've been able to get great high paying jobs when I've needed them. Try not to let fear get the better of you and live your best at all times. If you are feeling like you are wasting your time, then stop. Time truly is the most precious thing.