"If you’re like me, work is the primary shaper of your life"
It's sad to see people again and again sell their life.
It's sad to see people again and again sell their life.
Why? I don't find that sad at all - some people really enjoy their work, and it becomes a big part of their identity. What better way to spend you life than doing something you truly enjoy and provides you an income to be comfortable and take care of your family/friends?
I know a lot of doctors, they have spent their entire lives taking care of people, saving lives and generally doing good things. Most of them have a very, very hard time retiring when the time comes - it is who they are. I know several in their eighties who continue to practice because it brings them joy.
While not an MD myself, if I won the mega-millions tomorrow, and was set for life, I would still write code for someone or something.
Ironically, I think your MD example provides the exact sort of comparison that should trigger some critical introspection for most tech workers. Most of us are not exactly saving lives with the time we spend in front of the keyboard.
If you have passion, you don't need to care where to follow it. But OP seemingly traded a fulfilling privat life with friends for a company with coworkers.
But not everyone is the same. Some people derive great value and pleasure from their job.