6 months ago I lost a really well-paid (mid 200k) finance job that had great benefits and everything. I've been aggressively applying and interviewing for similar jobs but just can't get my break. This week, I finally got an offer from a more junior program manager role that would be -40% paycut compared to my last comp while employed and is generally less intellectually-challenging than my career has been so far.

I'm beyond grateful for the offer (it's my first one so far) but can't help feeling dissatisfied with the lower level of responsibility, lower entry level, lower "prestige", lower level of salary. I think of accepting it anyway because of good commute and only 3-4 day in the office required, but I think I will continue applying. I assume the 9-5 grind is going to get to me and I'll probably eventually tire out of applying and working and just settle for this new role. Or maybe this role would prevent me from "jumping back" into my original career path and limit my options overall.

What advice do you have for me folks? After how long of trying for your dream job do you kind of give up and move on