Got out of flying in 90's and made a lot more  

Flying HEMS for 25 years. Maxed out my 401K every year and picked the most agressive options. Now sitting on US1.6m and flew no more than 200 hours a year in this career. House paid for, got a truck, car, bike, and boat. Live on the lake 20 minutes from the airport. When I leave the base I forget about work. Self employed would have been a 24hr gig I would not have liked. Two more years and I retire. Me and the missus will move overseas to spend time with the grandkids when she retires in 3 years. Couldn't beat it and would do it again. It's all about living within your means, and none of my vehicles were purchased new.