[Ray Of Light]

For the last year I have often thought, "If I had more time to devote to serious play and study of the game, I could easily play online poker for a living." ... so I am guessing that you haven't quite reached the stage yet where you could honestly make a living from poker.

Also, from the numerous questions that you pose at the end of your post, it sounds as if you haven't planned for your poker career.

Don't play poker for a living as a knee jerk reaction to quitting your job.

Normally, whenever someone decides to play poker for a living and posts about it, I am all for it. I mean your only live once, why spend the rest of you life going 'what if'.

But you seem to me, to be poorly prepared.

If you have savings, a bankroll, and you've consistanly won over a long period, then by all means go for. Otherwise, err on the side of caution for now, and look for some work... even a part-time position.