Or-

Money was not my motivation to want to leave my job, but rather a decent quality of life; still, I needed to pay my bills.

I have a firsthand understanding of the value of a degree or lack thereof.

Or-

I have a firsthand understanding of a degree’s value or lack thereof.

1. Leaving my job was to pursue a higher quality of life, yet I still needed money to pay bills. In the end, my motivation was driven by intangible measures, not by money.

2. I have a clear understanding of the value of a degree, and first-hand knowledge of not having one.

The second… i would put “I have a first hand understanding of the value (or lack of) a degree.”

Hmmm, just a suggestion :L

2)no “of” needed when “thereof” is present

http://datentryworksworkathomeobs.blogspot.com/

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