The vast majority of Americans simply do not have that choice. They can't go to their boss and say, "hey boss, I want to take a 10% pay cut and get an extra 2 weeks off." American work culture simply doesn't allow that.

Any smart boss with decision making power should instantly give workers an additional 2 weeks off for a 10% pay cut. (Assuming the workers work more than 20 weeks a year and their duties can be taken up by someone else). It's pure profit at that point.

That aside... there is always a choice. Don't ever think otherwise. You don't have to stay there. You don't have to drive a nice car. Always a choice. It's just a matter of tradeoffs.

It's not profit, it's saving money. But also less production. You get my point.

It's only less production if you assume that productivity remains constant or decreases if you give the employee that extra time off.

I guess I didn't meet that many smart bosses then!

Again, easy for you to say when you're in your early 20s, single, no kids and few friends.

I'm actually 44 years old. But sometimes I feel like I'm still in my early 20's. I credit it to staying interested and staying moving.

I'm not single either. I have a great girlfriend I've lived with for over 10 years.

I don't have kids and only a few close friends, so you did hit that part correctly.

I am actually a freelancer, my example was not of my current situation. But while I was employed it was very hard (I didn't manage to get it despite trying for a while) to get a job as a developer for less than full time regardless of salary.

Anyway that wasn't the point, my point was that stating your particular preference doesn't really add much to the conversation.

Don't give up - I heard of one in Boulder last year, and looking at their site, I see it's still listed.

I am quite happy with my freelancing but thanks :)