has it been worth it?
definately yes! I still do it to some degree and still enjoy it. It keeps you on your toes and you can make a big impact on other peoples lifes. Some students can get a whole new meaning in their lives. That's not true for every student, but it's worth it for each one where it is. Being a FI challenges you on many levels not only the basic teaching of a skill. You create a pilots mind where human factors, risk management and leadership play major roles.
If you do it right even the pay is o.k. People pay me very well for quality instruction. Many FI's complain about he pay, but are not willing or motivated to put much effort into it eighter.
sp