This material has been written for graduate students who are considering an academic career. It may raise more questions than it answers. Please consult a sympathetic faculty member for further information or advice. You've been in school for most of the years of your life, and you've been around universities for more years than you may care to count.
Teaching can be a very satisfying, rewarding experience.
Tenure has its privileges. A tenured professor has the opportunity to embark on risky research without needing to produce short-term results. Interdisciplinary research with university colleagues can be stimulating and fun. Flexible hours can be a great asset in juggling family commitments. The first year teaching as an assistant professor can be quite a shock.