if I learned anything in my (too) long career is that one should do everything possible to ensure that whoever pays you needs you more than you need the money they are paying you. it is not easy to get there right away but if you make this core thing in your career it is achievable and your career will be happy and prosperous
I find this insightful. Would you recommend anything in particular to get there? Other than staying frugal and being competent at your job?