Went From Corporate Rat Race to Freelance - Best and Worst Decision Ever

Left my job 3 years ago. Was making six figures at a tech company, absolutely miserable, traveling 60% of the time. My oldest told me he didn't recognize me anymore because I was only home for like 2 days every week. That hit different. So I quit and started freelancing. First year was terrifying. Second year was better. Now I make about 60% of what I used to but I'm here for everything. I see my kids before they go to bed. I coach my son's soccer team. I actually know what's happening in their lives instead of just checking in by phone.

But man, do I miss the stability and the paycheck sometimes. My wife worries about it even though we're doing okay. I miss the prestige of having a fancy job title, if I'm being honest. Miss having colleagues and structure. But I would never go back. I'm a different person now, a better one, just a poorer one.