[sebmak]

I would say it is unfair to categorize software engineers as "always focus(ing) on salary and early retirement". It is true that in all fields, especially ones that pay well, there is always people who are in it for the money, and they want to get out as fast as they can. But there are plenty, and I would argue a significant majority, who do it because they love and enjoy it. You have to be careful when judging any field by the vocal minority because it is often just that, a very vocal minority.

I really enjoy writing code every day. I do it less now that I lead a team, but want to do coding of some sort until I die. My only motivation to make more money, is to eventually afford me the freedom to do coding for me.