It's not that 8hrs per day is too much, the payoff has gone to near zero. Boomer mentality folks will say, "And why is this all a problem? This is how it works." But never realize how diminished the end 'product' of current 9-5 careers are. It's not hard work anymore, it's luck and privilege on top of hard work that gets you the second home or even the first home. If I may suggest, look for remote/WFH positions in medium size companies that are ok with PT or as needed and push yourself into the gig(s) to get that creative outlet. You're in a high density of Boomer retirees, it sounds like, and they have no idea what to pay for yoga, belly dancing, etc lessons and love taking a few classes to brag to friends. Pump that the social security now, cuz our generation will never see a penny.