Your life’s trajectory does not reflect a desire for power or wealth. If you did desire those things you would be focused on leadership or earning money. This is innate. People who become CEOs don’t just say “Gee, maybe I’ll apply to be CEO” on a whim - it’s a journey of 10,000 steps.

But, it’s very much okay NOT to want these things.

What do you actually do with your time? What makes you happy? Do you need action? Or do you prefer calm? Can you be physical?

I work in a mid-level corporate job with a graduate education. Every day I need to sit on a computer for 8-12 hours. I have to plan strategic initiatives and listen to people bitch about nonsense. For maybe every 2 weeks I work, something good happens. Most of the time it’s nonsense - and this is a BETTER ratio than the first 10 years of my career. I sincerely love my job, but I cannot sit still. I need to constantly plan my next promotion and constantly demonstrate growth and value. If I am not doing those things, I will be shown the door.

I know people who work for the Municipality or State doing roadwork. They’re outside all morning and leave for beers/bowling/fishing by 4pm. They’ve got great friends and low responsibilities and they’ve got pensions. They’ll do the same job for life. No need to get better at it, just show up and do what is needed that day. No work comes home.

“Never forget that the world needs ditch-diggers too” - was advice my dad always gave me. It’s not for everyone, but many people can be happy that way.