Like some/many of the respondents, I feel quite fortunate. Almost every time from the outset I have worked on a "contract basis", i.e. for a fixed purpose and time (although when it was "permanent" it might as well have been because I sought a change) - usually at the very least for a year or so. After an initial period of gaining experience I found that I no longer needed to look for work, it found me. By careful financial management for less than a decade I was free of accumulated student debt, mortgage and immediate financial worry - this I regard as the key to peace of mind which also frees you from resenting having to work because it is not so overpoweringly important to continue to earn money virtually non-stop. If there is any advice I would imprint on people, it is to urge them to live well within their means (jettison the fear of labelling and the race for labels) and then you don't so easily fall prey to changes in circumstances, the banks, etc. Right now, I only work (current job) because on the occasions when I have said I am leaving I have been told that they will do virtually anything to keep me. I am in effect giving in to emotional blackmail (but not taking advantage) - but for the most part every day I like what I do and, crucially, it feeds my hunger for travel - my mind has been greatly broadened by seeing a variety of places, not as a tourist but as a resident for a while. Although I am certainly not wealthy, the money no longer matters except I would not do this for free because then it is better to give someone who needs the money on offer a shot.