[pmg102]

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