I don't think you'd be a loser for any of those scenarios. I know plenty of people who have started over to make a better life. I think there is too much pressure on people to go to college and it isn't always the right option. I got a degree in business and have never used it. What a waste (imo). I heard of one guy that got his MBA even and ended up as an apprentice to learn plumbing. He ended up doing that as a career.

Sometimes a little sacrifice to be better in the long run is a good thing. I know as people we are more prone to instant gratification, but sometimes delayed gratification is better.