Should I stay or should I go now?

[April VanCleve]

I work in a controversial job... the dilemma is - it's not in real estate. 

Pros to my current position: Secure, w2, pay is above average, benefits are stellar, schedule is somewhat flexible (can leave if I need to without penalty; vacation when I want - utilizing banked time on both), 3 miles from home, and hopefully a pension in 17 years. 

Cons: Not a happy industry - everyone has a story or opinion and they're usually negative. It's not my 'best life' job. 

I've wanted to get into real estate for a long time but typically moving into that realm in a w2 position means a decent pay cut and probable loss of all the other good stuff. This is counter-intuitive to my goal - slow and steady save to purchase our first investment property (with more to follow). 

I ask you - is it worth it to make the move, take the cut, leave the boat and jump into the sea with just a floatie in order to get more experience in the field and chase a dream? I know I'm the only one that can answer that, but what's your opinion?