> Talk to people at these businesses. Network, even minimally. You say you've had other jobs in this industry, did you leave those jobs on good terms? Talk to t

> Talk to people at these businesses. Network, even minimally. You say you've had other jobs in this industry, did you leave those jobs on good terms? Talk to the people you worked with/for at those companies. Let them know how good you felt about your jobs with them, and how you feel about your current job and prospects. Complaining about a current employer is okay if it's in the context of praising a past employer. I have left all positions on good terms, OK tenure - and it's not uncommon for me to receive offers to return to these places. At this entry level salary, I'm a great hire... I'll try to expand the network and see who has opportunities. Many of our tenured salespeople have left recently, lots of people are pining for better pay, which further complicates moving up the ladder. > In terms of salary, or also in terms of workload? Because it sounds as if workload is a bit more than half your problem. If you jumped ship for similar pay but a lower (or at least more structured) workload you'd have more time for your business, self-improvement, or at minimum to destress. I can manage the stress, but it needs to be worthwhile financially. This is a lose-lose situation unfortunately. You're right, I may be happier going elsewhere, whether or not there's upward mobility. > Does this qualify you for any jobs in local or state government, such as code enforcement? Code enforcement is quite a sought after position! When one of our local code enforcement officers retired, many were clamoring for the role. He was promoted from within. Not a bad idea to try and seek a state/government position. Although I'm now regretting not having a formal education, once I hit 10+ years of project management, I may be considered for better positions. I will still be barred from many high paying positions. My business does not scale and just helps pay the bills. However, I'm growing tired of working so much for a low-end existence in this area. Here's to wasting away my 30's as well.