Great question... the only thing I don't think I'd be able to handle about getting back out into the 9-5 rat race is actually getting up, making myself presentable and getting dressed before noon. lol Seriously, how many of us just roll out of bed in our PJs and get to work until our significant others shake their heads and say, "Gonna get dressed today, hon?" lol
I worked 9-5 for years and loved it... I loved working with people, but I hated office politics. At least here I can choose not to read GFY-ish boards or can switch off email or ICQ when people get too full of shit. lol
A couple years ago I worked myself to burnout... my hair was literally turning gray in STREAKS (not attractive, trust me) - and I was snapping at everyone I loved and working 20 hour days until I fell asleep on my keyboard.
When I switched companies I made myself a schedule. I get up around 8, grab a cup of coffee and get on the computer. I check email, post on boards, and get the day going. I work non-stop until about 2-3pm, take a short break to get the house tidied, make phone calls and get home stuff done - then I hop back on the PC and work until about 5-6 or until everything is finished. RARELY have I ever had a 12 hour day since this has happened. I MAKE myself stick to a schedule.
Maybe I'm just getting old - I turned *gasp* 35 this year - but there's more to life than 18-20 hour days and working weekends. Friday is SO much sweeter when there's a weekend of reading, gardening, movies, family trips and relaxation to look forward to!
;)
