Who cares for the cash, the lost time hurts most. Jobs suck ass, even if they’re mildly interesting. Could’ve pursued 5 hobbies instead of sitting in a stupid office doing stupid things for other people
Dude, I’m a software engineer. I work from home. Maybe 4-6 hours a day for 180k. I get to own a beautiful house on a big piece of property and play with my kid throughout the day. You’re telling me thats not worth it?
Oh, and I like what I do. It’s what I would choose as a hobby. And I’ve worked at enough startups and build up enough shares and options that I’ll probably be able to retire at 40 and just travel the world financially sound from there.
If that’s what you enjoy doing, then sure, it’s fine :) Coding is fun, i do it as a hobby too. Probably not on your level though. But you’re most likely not the absolute average working-joe.
And yes, retire as soon as you comfortably can. Did in my early 20s, would never go back. Tried once or twice for some months working, just because it sounded like a nice gig. Got bored quickly, left before I even learned some names. That was 3 decades ago or so :) Even if you love the job, traveling is probably better. And doing what you love for yourself and not for the benefit of others is even better too.