[jcx]

Money may not buy happiness, but it does create options. I'd rather bust my ass in my 20's and save up some money than goof off (which I did) and then be stuck in your 30's in a job you hate (like me) because you have a family to support and the job you currently have is all you are qualified to do that pays decent money.

Another thing to consider - in your 20's you are still full of vigor. You can work 10-12 hours, go out at night and still get up in the morning. I'm 33 and while that ain't old, there is a definite difference in my energy level from when I was 23.

My advice is to suck it up and take the job. Live on Top Ramen for a few years. In 5-7 years you can walk away from that job with enough saved to pay cash for a nice house (prob not in NYC, but in many cities in America). Then you can start your business (be it poker or something else) on a solid foundation, not with scared money.

Lastly, remember to count your blessings. Not too many new college grads are looking at making $100K+ 2 years into their 1st job. And don't ever underestimate the value of having F you money. It can make all the difference in the world. Good luck.