My first thought is that you have way too many things going on all at
once:
- Photography business (closed)
- Current boring job
- Long commute
- Stay at home spouse
- Two toddlers, third child on the way
- Data Science school
- RE investment partnership
- Chocolate startup company
- Mortgage and house repairs and possible HELOC
I'm including the photography business because it was
recently in your life. You have way too many potential
stress points and need to come up with a plan to reduce
them, including finding some time to take care of yourself
and your spouse physically (fitness, diet) and emotionally.
The Current Boring Job is adding 2 stress points (boring
plus long commute), but it's the only thing currently
stable in your life -- with the exception, presumably -- of
your relationship with your spouse. More importantly, it's the
only source of stable income for your family. You owe it to your
spouse and your children to provide them with some stability,
even if it requires personal sacrifice.
Your current job may be boring, but you've got two upsides:
- Your daily commute is by bus.
- You work only 4 days out of the week.
Data Science school will add risks to your family. There
is some
potential financial upside, but there's also no
guarantee your won't evenutally get bored with that career
too.
If you forgo Data Science school, the Chocolate startup company
may actually make sense, assuming it has low capital requirements.
You're a finance guy, so you should be able to readily judge if
the endeavor makes sense. It gives you something to channel your
creative energy. It's also a way for you to stay engaged with
your wife on a daily basis. If it's successful, your children
can also get involved.
I'm aware that nobody has all the knowledge of what's best for
for another Mustachian, but given the facts you've provided, this
is my advice, for what it's worth.
Best wishes for you and your family.