Life: Money vs Friends & Family

So, I had a very interesting conversation last night with the guy I'm seeing. He's in business management. (I know, what the hell am I doing hanging around boring business dudes, right?) And I can see an obvious difference in the views of life between us. He's more of a career-orientated person where he strives to reach the top of the ladder, and is aware of the sacrifices he needs to make (in terms of spending time with his family and friends) in order to get to that level. In his defense, he has the idea that providing his future family (meaning his wife and kids) with lots of money and opportunities are essential to their happiness. (Sigh.. Asians are nuts)

But I personally believe that being on top (of the career-ladder) doesn't necessarily guarantee a happy life. Yes, you'll have money and success, but you can't take all that to the grave. (Actually you can't take anything to the grave that might actually be useful when you're deadsies.) When I die, I want people to remember me for who I am. Not what I have achieved. I would much rather not become a slave to the world. I want people to miss me for the way I have influenced their lives, and for being a big part of their lives. I don't want to be an important person in the world. I want to be an important person in the lives of those who are important to me.

Sooo... If you were to ever give me the option of working late for the advancement of my career, or going home early to have a romantic dinner with my man, that would be a no-brainer. (Unless of course, I had nothing else going for me and I turned out to be a pathetic cat lady. Which is not that far from my life now.)

Cat lady in training.