I get myself into these things because I fail to think long-term. In my professional life, I'd like to have a satisfying, challenging position. I want to look forward to waking up on weekdays. I hate the sinking sensation I get when I know I have to go to work the next day. I need a vocation, not a job.
Family is also important.
I can't see myself hitting forty without a family. Even though I haven't been doing so well in the romantic arena, I know I have to keep at it, since I do much worse alone than with someone. Plus, I don't think I'd consider having kids if I didn't have someone to raise them with. That's a pretty tall order, though. Someone who can put up with me and wants kids.