I see a few saying to quit now, that money isn't everything, and happiness is more important. Even been some examples of those that did just that and found another job without a problem. I agree to a point. I did the same thing, quit a very good paying job (for the time) and left because I was not happy where I was. The owner of the company tried to talk me out of it, then got pissed when I told him that "money wasn't everything".
With that said, how many of your examples of quitting were in the last couple years? It's a whole different market out there right now. In 2005 things were roaring and getting a job wasn't nearly the same as 2012. I am not saying you will not be able to find a job, good skill sets usually pay off. But there are a lot of talented unemployed people right now, at least unemployed in their field. If you're willing to work for $8/hour you can always find a job.