Perhaps
this article will help you a little bit...
It's quite a good read. You don't mention your age, but most of us hit the crossroads of current careers vs. new career at some point - I'm there myself.
If you're not happy in your current field, I would discourage from seeking an advanced degree, your heart won't be in it and it's a lot of work (I'm working on Masters now - though it will help me with my future endeavors). If you think you do want to pursue an advanced degree, I would urge you to hit up
degreeinfo.com, a distance ed forum of which I have been part of for seven years.
Remember, your parents come from a different generation with different perceptions - the days of spending 40 years with the same organization are rare now, as many now seek to get meaning and fulfillment out of their career, not just a paycheck.
Take a vacation, sit back and think about what you want to do; what interests you? Can you afford to leave your current job? Don't jump at something new, but plan it out well, weigh the pros/cons and go from there.