DEAR ANNIE: I’m writing about my sister, “Claire,” who seems to be living two completely different lives. By day, she’s a high-powered attorney, wearing tailored suits and commanding boardrooms. But on weekends, she disappears to a tiny town in Michigan, where she rents a cabin and paints. None of her colleagues know about her art, and she told me she doesn’t want them to find out.

Recently, Claire confided that she’s thinking of quitting her firm to paint full time. The problem is, she’s spent 15 years building her legal career, and her husband is firmly against the idea; he calls it a “phase.” I can see how much happier she is up north, but I also worry she’s about to throw away everything she’s worked for.

I love her and want to support her, but I don’t know whether to encourage the leap or remind her what she’d be giving up. How do you tell someone you love that chasing fulfillment might come with a very real cost?

— Torn Between Logic and Love

DEAR TORN: Before Claire trades her briefcase for a paintbrush, she needs to run the numbers. Can her husband’s income support their family while her painting gig gets off the ground? And if it doesn’t pan out, could she get back into law without too much damage to her resume?

Passion alone won’t keep the lights on. If Claire wants to make this transition, maybe she can ease in — part-time lawyer, part-time artist — until she knows for sure which one fits.

DEAR ANNIE: I’m a mother of six, and my husband has become completely irresponsible. He shows no concern for our family’s well-being and refuses to contribute financially. I’m the only one working, juggling multiple jobs just to keep food on the table, yet he doesn’t appreciate my efforts.

He’s rejected every suggestion that might help him find work or become more supportive. Our children get no emotional care from him; he eats while they go hungry. He’s selfish and manipulative, and it’s taken a huge toll on my mental and physical health.

I’ve decided I need a separation for my own sanity, but I’m torn about what to do with the children. I thought about leaving them with him temporarily while I get back on my feet, but he refuses — he says if I leave, I must take them with me because he “can’t handle them.”

I feel terrible for giving my kids a father who won’t take responsibility, and I don’t know what’s best for them right now. Should I take the children and start over or leave them with him and try to rebuild myself first?

— Exhausted but Trying

DEAR EXHAUSTED: If your husband shows no concern for his children’s well-being, why on earth would you leave them with him? Pack up, take your kids and start fresh. It won’t be easy — but it’ll be a whole lot easier than living every day drained by his selfishness. You’ve already been doing it all on your own. Now do it without the deadweight.

Follow Annie Lane on Instagram at @dearannieofficial. Visit http://www.creatorspublishing.com for more information. Send your questions for Annie Lane to dearannie@creators.com.