Today, I got a call from the CEO of my former company, a small marketing firm I left six months ago to start my own business.

I’ve been designing logos for over seven years, and my attention to detail and discipline quickly advanced me to the next in line for a leadership position. However, a colleague, lets call hum John, who never liked me, convinced my boss—who naively believed him—that I wasn’t fit for the promotion. John wanted the position for himself, and now he’s in charge of the design section.

The CEO is unhappy with John’s performance. Clients don’t want to work with him because he’s lazy, undisciplined, and not a good designer (the CEO’s words). Now, my old boss wants me back and is asking me to take John’s position.

I’m really happy working on my own, even though I make less money. I can focus entirely on my work and put a lot of effort and detail into my logo designs, without the hassle of office politics.

What do you guys think I should do? Oh, and the CEO will fire John if I decide to join.