I am on the other side of this equation - if I went from my current big tech role to an equivalent seniority level in the public sector, I'd be looking at a 50+

I am on the other side of this equation - if I went from my current big tech role to an equivalent seniority level in the public sector, I'd be looking at a 50+% pay cut. I am not ready to make the leap yet because I fear the jealousy eating away at me - but at the same time I know it is more rational to aim for happiness now than push for an early retirement I might not get to see at all, or might not enjoy when I do get there.