
I opted for the less money, less stress job. With my current job I have the peace of mind knowing that once I leave at 5pm I don't have to think about it again until 9am. Would the money have been nice, sure, but the long hours and uncertainty of each day I do not miss. Besides, I work with such a great group of people that I regret nothing.
I did male a specific and deliberate choice to pick a job that left me with energy and head space to write after 8 hours in the office. I wouldn't say that my job isn't challenging, but it doesn't drain me and that is an important difference.