You are right on about a lot of very important things.
It is often those who make sacrifice that eventually get ahead.
I also was a computer programmer for a number of years as well as a design engineer. While I did enjoy that and made well over twice what I make now, I like what I am doing to help people. I believe that is what makes the most sense to me.
All of the money in the world nor all the power and prestige can make up for a lack of happiness and fulfillment.