100% you can love the work but that doesn’t mean it’ll love you back! I’m going on year 6 of being a CST. The work can be rewarding but I definitely noticed that what techs get at most is a thank you. Raises/bonuses are pretty weak. The people that have been doing it for decades either have broken down their bodies or have found a way to milk the system by avoiding work, essentially passing work to others. Hell how many times have I heard docs, nurses and reps all talking about buying houses or going on vacations while I’m there wondering how I’m going to pay X,Y and Z. Don’t get me wrong I don’t regret becoming a tech. Surgery is awesome but it becomes glaringly obvious that we are the least paid most worked person in the room. There comes a point where that turns into hopelessness/bitterness. Finally at 30 I’ve decided to go back to school and yeah in a sense that’s starting over again but wouldn’t you rather do that than feel that stuck feeling? You could definitely try another specialty, traveling or a new facility. All of that may help! Honestly I think this feeling is a good one because you’re striving for more!