The real trick here is lower pay. I don't find meaning in my work life. It exists just to fund my art life.

A close friend left his job to start his own tech consulting company. He loves working for himself. Even if it's the same pay, he gets immense satisfaction knowing all his work is for his company.

What would you consider changing people's lives? Teaching? Solving problems in your community? Inventing a life-saving medical device?