Lack of purpose and life achievement as a trader/pro gambler

[PeterLe]

Have you ever worked full time?

I've worked my ass off!

Great Story and really glad to hear it!

I worked in IT in the 80's and 90's and there were plenty of people around who were millionaires just on the strength of the share options they had.
Many years ago, I met a customer in London, who was originally at my then company. He got in on the ground floor and was given barrow loads of shares in the earky 80's.
He didnt have very high flying job, but he said at the peak (around 1999?) the shares were worth around $21m
Not sure why he would still work, but like he said to me "I have to have something to do"?!

[vankancisco]

It's certainly a thought provoking subject, something that probably arises as you go through life and reflect back on things in a wider context. It was a while ago that I first noticed what seems like a tendency for professional gamblers being prone to anxiety and depression. The strange thing about it was it also seemed quite extensive amongst those who had perhaps done very well financially. I think there's often a notion that once you achieve financial success - everything is going to be great, but I'm not sure it's as simple as that.

I think it's possibly a case of being driven and having a commitment to reach a certain point, and once you get there - a brick wall can appear. Broadening horizons and self-development doesn't come naturally when you're simply trying to accumulate money, money which probably isn't that relevant in the greater context of things. But in the same token, escaping the mindset that's been built up also presents a challenge, it's definitely not the case of flicking a switch.

I'm guessing switching from a regular job that didn't provide much fulfilment puts a slightly different complexion on things. Going from that to being your own boss with greater freedom and choice has got to be a positive.