It is only a rat race for you if you decide to join the race. Who is it that is putting pressure on you to make more $? Is it your wife? Your friends? Yourself? Whoever it is will never be satisfied no matter how much $ you make. Stop comparing yourself to others. Ask yourself what you want deep down and act accordingly. When was the last time you were truly happy without buying something? Focus on that. It is your subconscious ego telling you something. Listen to it.