Is it not just a question of what you're optimising for? Excluding the outliers (the lazy, incompetent, or geniuses), most can choose what to optimise for: -

Is it not just a question of what you're optimising for? Excluding the outliers (the lazy, incompetent, or geniuses), most can choose what to optimise for: - free time, low stress, calm life - fulfillment through delivering functionality - fulfillment through pride in the craft - money and status through career progression - social validation through relationships with coworkers/bosses