Q#1- Do I Take the Job or Not?

Question #1- Do I take the job or not? This is for real. I am leaving it up to you.

Background: For various family reasons, I didn't go to college when all my peers went. For several years I managed a small health care practice. I didn't make much money, but it was a job I was good at and the doctor was a good man. Finally, the day came where i was able to quit that job and FINALLY go to college (uni for my overseas friends) so I could eventually get a better job! I graduated in May! It cost a lot of money and it was hard work as it was an Ivy League school. But I did it. I graduated.

The week before I graduated, analysts (who analyze such things) came out to say that for recent college graduates, this is the worst job market in the country's history (that would include the period of the depression). Wow. Happy graduation to me. Turns out, they were right. I have applied to countless jobs without success. I've applied for everything from entry level jobs to more qualified positions. I've applied at companies from large corporations in the big cities to the Starbucks and grocery store in my neighborhood. Nothing. So far I have only received the following feedback: 1) I am over qualified 2) I am not well enough qualified 3) they are not hiring at the moment 4) the position has already been filled. (The time I got the email informing me that the position had already been filled I was a little excited because at least I finally got some feedback to the countless resumes I've sent out. I know, pathetic.)

Since I couldn't find any opportunities, I made my own opportunity by starting a business. The work is seasonal and right now is the "off" season so have neither work, nor income. While the business was 'in season", I didn't receive any income, BUT by my final week I finally broke even. Yessiree, folks. My business now has a tidy profit of $26. As soon as I make the next necessary purchase for the company, it will dip back into the red but for now I'm celebrating any victory that comes along.

In the meantime, I have a little money set aside but worry if it'll be enough until I find a job where I can support myself.

This past week I saw the doctor I used to work for. He asked me to come back to work for him 3 mornings a week. For the same rate I was making 6 years ago (which wasn't much at that time). I used to live near his office. Now I live about an hour away. So I'd be traveling 2 hours on Mondays and 2 hours on Wednesdays in order to work 3 hours each of those mornings. On Fridays I'd work for 5 or 6 hours and drive 2.

Now's your turn.

Do I take the job or not?

YOU decide. But make it quick. I only have a few days before I need to let him know. I'll get back to you to let you know how it goes.