I don’t think the OP is insane. Sure, the trades are physically demanding and in a lot of cases will pay less than a software developers’ salary. But one thing

I don’t think the OP is insane. Sure, the trades are physically demanding and in a lot of cases will pay less than a software developers’ salary. But one thing the responses are missing is that simply because you can’t physically see the damage done doesn’t mean it’s not there. Bad back and shaky hands from years of hard labour? Sure. How about years of stress and gaslighting? Is chronic depression and learned helplessness any less bad? “Don’t worry buddy, you’re getting paid enough to hate yourself and not see the point in living anymore. Just keep at the grind and enjoy your comfy chair and latte.” If you’re starting to feel that way I would look into starting therapy first before making big life decisions like that. You might find the root cause of your discomfort and treat the cause rather than run away from it. And if it is the right move for you you will go in with eyes wide open.