[smharris65]

I've had many years of experience in large enterprise projects like the one you are describing. I know exactly the frustrations you are experiencing. But don't ever forget that you are doing a noble thing by staying in this job to support your family. That is a great sacrifice you should take pride in. It shows your dedication to your family. That is an important success you have already accomplished. And don't forget Einstein made a lot of important discoveries while working as a Swiss patent clerk!

In my opinion, the first thing you should do is eliminate this feeling you have of being "trapped". Why? Because it clouds your thinking and judgement. You may feel trapped, but that is not completely true. What's great about software development is that you only need a computer and an internet connection and you have many, many options. But, are you prepared for any option when it arrives?

The right thing to do now is continue working this job to support your family while you explore and learn about other options. That may take months. For example, have you built up a body of work on GitHub? Have you contributed to any open-source projects? Have you created an iPhone or Android app? Do you need to brush up on data structures and algorithms? What about learning a new language?

Once you are fully prepared, you will see any potential options unfold naturally instead of through a feeling of desperation.

“Change the way you look at things and the things you look at change.”