Why not just stop once we've done the same work as in the past?

Is there nothing to improve in your life? Was there nothing to improve in the 50s? Would you like supersonic commercial flights for everyone and photorealistic computer games? Electric cars and larger houses? You can also do better and improve the life of everyone. That’s not even considering the improvements impoverished countries around the world have experienced in the recent decades, have a look at Africa.

My desire to work less eclipses any desire for any of those things. I do not believe that lives are being improved. It only benefits the rich that don't have to work because there is no downside for them and they only gain more power through the system

I would rather work full time now than part time in the 50s, I think. I haven’t lived in the 50s though so I can’t say for sure.

>Is there nothing to improve in your life?

Yes: less work primarily.

Shiny new phones every year, bigger better faster shinier cars, Fancier meals, must have gadgets, keeping a keen eye on the Jones's, better fuller lawn without weeds, that paved driveway you've always wanted, a faster computer, better heating systems, brand name clothing...

When needs and wants get all mixed up, there is always more to be done.

just say it man: capitalism creates new needs to justify working you extra hard

Because, thus far, people have always wanted more.