While I agree with the praises directed towards Patrick, I don't think it's wise to make assumptions about his (or anyone else's) motivations. If Patrick wanted to, he could walk any of the paths mentioned in the OP.

We just don't know that Patrick isn't exactly where he wants to be in the long run. Maybe he doesn't want the things that come along with $100k, $200k, $1MM per year.

If it is his aspiration to make that kind of money, I wouldn't bet against him having a plan. Patrick's transparency about his work might give the illusion that we know what he wants in life. We don't.