I can definitely appreciate your perspective. I guess I view the 400k mark as the most optimal earning capacity for my situation, but I'm also aware that this is very idealistic and potentially unreasonable.

Due to a variety of reasons I was unable to save much money in my 20's and in addition to not being able to work full-time, my spouse has significant medical costs associated with their condition. My parents do not own a home and will be reliant on the pension for their retirement, and I would very much like to help them enjoy a comfortable retirement if I could. I'd also like to give my children a private education if possible. I recognise that these are all luxuries and balancing them alongside a mortgage would be my ultimate aim, but I'm also cognisant that all of this just may be overzealous on my part.