I think it comes down to doing some reality checks on one's quals, skills and aspirations. In my case, I decided on a radical career change - but had to rely on my good wife for moral and financial support whilst I "retrained" via a three year full time Uni course plus 'articles'. Being a member of the profession that I aspired to join, she proved to be most supportive. I'm sure she'd tell you that it was worth it. I certainly think so!
As to 'missing the mob', I've found that Reserve service goes quite some way to compensate - except that Mess life these days is really quite boring and lacks the verve of past times.