I have been lurking on this sub for a while sorry for posting something different, if it’s not appropriate, but it seems this sub was intended for another purpose, so here is my stab at that.
I like my jobs but no longer have to do them to get by. I like that freedom. I think the goal that we had, to work while needed and then only work for pleasure, has been achieved. My colleagues bought big houses and moved up…we paid off and saved.
I also know that I’m really fortunate in so many ways. High level of education good family, great supportive and loving spouse. Last time I had a shitty work environment I was fortunate to leave within 2 years, so pretty quickly.
Don’t get me wrong, I still work and love it. I think that I have never been more productive, but I no longer have to. Same with my spouse and that feels really good.
Our family lives small, less cars more solar panels, less boats more rental kayaks. We fit into a small space with lots of access to transit. We walk to stores, bike and spend money to travel.
Life goals can be about balance.