I can attest to this. I made a small fortune in Silicon Valley and retired at age 40. Every day, I'm thankful that I have my health and a full day to do whate

I can attest to this. I made a small fortune in Silicon Valley and retired at age 40. Every day, I'm thankful that I have my health and a full day to do whatever I want. I don't know what I'd do with the investment income from the next level of wealth. The conspicuous consumption (for instance) of flying by timeshare on a private jet instead of on a regular scheduled flight would just attract problems in my life. People can smell money from a mile away if you don't keep your head down. I am at Grübel's level of rich. I am healthy, have no dependents and own my own time. I enjoy taking a walk in the park on a Tuesday afternoon because I want to. The afternoon meetings I had to attend in Silicon Valley were the worst. I saw a sign once that said, "My hope is to die in a staff meeting: that way, the transition from life to death will be subtle." I understood the sentiment 100%. Even by Silicon Valley terms, I had a great income and a good career. But I will never return to it.