Another book suggestion is “48 Days to the Work you Love”. Basic premise is that you will be most happy and most succussful doing what you truly enjoy. Although not written by Dave Ramsey - he is a strong supporter of the book and what it has to offer.
David, one suggestion I have if you really want to get away from architecture and the construction side of the business, is to look at the future. Technology. There is a new device out that everyone in the construction industry has jumped on board with and it is the iPad. The one thing I see lacking is software development for architects and specifiers. This could be a way to use your skills and also get out of the rat race. Think about all the research tools that could be developed for architects to help them. Code analysis is an example. Many if not most firms do not even do one anymore because they have gotten so time consuming and now they do not even want to deal with them anymore. Now many in executive positions do not even know what to ask the consultant for and verify that they are doing it. The codes have gotten to the point that you have to read every code there is to cover all the architectural needs. There is actually a really cool app developed for architects recently that is for space planning. The price point is high, but it has some really great tools within the app. Databasing is another key way to get the information organized. eSpec and Speclink go there. Think about their advantages to the workflow. Speclink is not perfect in any means, but can be developed on. Out of the box, it is not the solution.
There are ways to get the software side done. Partner with a programmer, or if brave enough, tackle the code yourself. Just be aware that this is taking you into product design and you have to continue to maintain and improve the product. It is definitely different that service side that you are used to.
What I suggest is think about those kind of things. Think outside the business, but within the edges to use your talent and skills there. Look for ways to improve the process or even create a process to improve the workflow for the architect, contractor and/or specifier. Look at new devices like the iPad, or the laptop since mobility is key to the future.
Good luck with what ever you choose.
Most of the advice here I agree is good if you decide to stay with specs or something closely related. But here’s another perspective - Many times when short-sighted people skimp to save a few bucks in spite of hard work on sound design and specifications, I’ve pondered whether going into construction law and forensic architecture would be the “dark side” of construction - or perhaps greener pastures. The worse the economy gets, the cheaper people will try to build and the more work you will have for years to come clarifying who was to blame for the various problems.