I am in my 20s in school and am only about to start my career (in the data science/analytics kind of field). As I've gotten older, and being politically very leftist, my ideas around work have changed a lot to where I basically just want a well paying 9-5 job that I can do the work, and then leave it behind at the end of the day. I will get the work done and do a good job, but I don't need to LOVE my job. I love traveling, trying new food or hobbies, being with friends and family. I want to have a stable job that gives me the ability to do things I love.
However, I'm concerned that with economic uncertainty, American hustle culture, and constantly being connected by phones, that this isn't possible anymore. I've watched my parents and the way they work. They are constantly having to answer emails and slack messages even on the weekends or vacation. Their colleagues will call at 7pm. They'll have all these work events to go to at night. They're always upset and stressed about work. They both make more than 6 figures but even so with inflation and just taking care of a family and a home means that while we were never were in need of anything, we have always been careful with money.
They tell me that in order to afford essentials and also do fun things like travel, I need to make at least 100k and that the aforementioned lack of work life balance is just the way work is now and I'm going to have to learn to deal with this in any job. I guess I'm hoping they're wrong? Is it really impossible to find a decently paid job that I can do the work at, and then leave it behind at the end of the day to live life? Any insight appreciated!