Duncan G.

Q. What were you doing before the Oxford Program and what are you doing now?

A. I was an international consultant and felt like I was in career hell for years. Then two years ago, I ditched that job and bought a coffeehouse. I now own a coffeehouse, a bakery, a catering business and I'm about ready to open two new coffeehouses.

Q. Are you happy you made the decision?

A. Absolutely. I have more time with my family, I can control my life, I spend time with my daughter... everything is fantastic. I'm finally earning more than I did before (it took 2 years), and I'm just SO much happier.

Q. Did you feel like it was a risk?

A. Was it a risk? Hell yeah. I had no idea what I was getting myself into. I only knew I had to get out of consulting.

Q. Any advice for others?

A. If you aren't happy where you are, it is time to change.

Here's what helped me.

1.Start by reading books and doing the Oxford Program to help you triangulate in on what you should be doing.

2. Determination. Changing direction and career can be scary stuff at first. It takes some guts and perseverance to see it through.

3. Pull the trigger - go for it. Like Steve says, life is too damn short to be miserable.