[nmpennypacker]

Whether or not programming salaries will go up or down in the next x years is anyone's guess. Everyone should plan for lower pay, regardless of what their profession is.

If you get used to living on 1/2 of what you make, or 1/4 of what you make with a partner, you'll pretty much always be fine. Not having kids also helps.

Set the bar low, and plan for the worst. Planning for the worst is also a good practice in programming. :)