Thanks for asking some thought provoking questions, Richard. I worked for a corporation for ten years, loads of perks, status, good money. Taking an early retirement to do freelance writing felt a bit like jumping off the deep end. But I jumped and never for a moment regretted the decision. I realised that I'd never really fitted into the corporate culture, just seduced in a way by the perks and money. I'm much happier now, especially after making another jump of the deep end and moving to France.