Mate, I feel this!
In the middle of a career purplepatch that is 15 years in the making, finally reaping what I sowed. All the late nights, early starts, self-education, bumps and bruises along the way are now bearing fruit.
It’s pushing me upwards in the hierarchy which 5-6 years ago I thought I would eventually want that but now I dread having seen what it’s done to others who went that route before me. None have become happier, all are in poorer health, they’re more stressed and have even less time for family or life in general.
I’ve already decided my own path though which has been incredibly empowering. For now I walk the tightrope whilst I get my ducks in a row, I’ll probably be forced to take one more step up the corporate ladder which I can bear but ultimately I will be getting off at that point on my own volition.
The “template life” of go to Uni, get a job, buy a house with a massive mortgage, slave away until your 70 was never my direction so whilst my peers will think I’m crazy, friends and family will understand and ultimately I will be happier.
Sometimes you’ve got to take a leap and back yourself, not just follow the herd because everyone else is.