Do you see programming as a means to a paycheck? If you see it as that you may want to reconsider your career. Most people high in their respective fields make it as such from a passion for their work.
I don't think I agree completely with that philosophy. I've heard a lot of programmers say that if you program it shouldn't be about the money. It's as if we should all be devout monks of technology eschewing worldly pleasures in the pursuit of high and noble technological purity. Meanwhile, the business/sales people use all our skills and efforts to make themselves rich. I can't agree with that. I do like programming and I do program for fun in my spare time. However, money is still important. It's an important consideration in choosing what you want to do with your future. It isn't the ONLY consideration, but it's still important.