What's life?
When young, lots of energy, good health, and no money and low income
When old, no energy, no health, have money, and high income (hopefully)
Life is about finding that balance, we don't know when is our last day, and we don't know how long the loved ones will be with us.
One last point, is it better to moonlight for that extra (and lower) incremental income? Or is it better to invest the time upgrading skills for higher income potential?
My wife and I talk about this often, and I am guessing so do other couples. We can protect ourselves, exercise, eat well etc - but that doesn't mean we are secure. The future is unknowable.
Great question!!
It depends on the person and the circumstance. For example, the friends I have talked to are already highly educated and skilled, so while they can increase these areas, it might not have that much impact on their income, but might take a long time to educate. Then there are people who educate, but never apply what they learn, where they end up using education as a type of entertainment - collecting "knowledge" but unable to apply it to add value anywhere. It is up to the person to work out what is suitable for them, but it has to be an honest appraisal of the self, a long hard look in the mirror to know what one is truly capable of and willing to do.