10 years ago, I took a lateral move in pay went from 110k to 115k) for less responsibility. I was working at a small company and I had set the bar at around 75 hours a week. The problem is, my family was suffering significantly, and after five years the stress was toxic. For my new position, I required: 1) multiple routes to work without needing to get on the highway 2) a larger company with more stability 3) very little after hours work required 4) at least the same pay.

I am still with the same company, and it is by far the best company I have ever worked for. I do not regret my conscious decision to stop focusing solely on climbing the ladder.