[aikiplayer]

A couple of years ago I moved from a more structured (not exactly slower paced in the job I was in) employer to a FAANG-like employer. I was making more money (base salary wasn't that different, stock and bonuses were). As I got more integrated and started wanting to make more of a difference, I started having to work longer and longer hours. It became obvious to me that I was on a path to essentially only working and sleeping. It was also physically wearing me out as I'm NOT in my 20's anymore. So essentially, I'd be making more money, but wouldn't have the time or energy to do anything but work. AND ... I'd have to start paying other people to do things for me that I normally would do myself - which then eats into that financial difference. I don't have young kids anymore so technically had the free time, but came to realize that I really didn't want to be forced to spend it solely on work. So I made a change to (again, a bit lower paying) but more structured environment.