Anyone else feel disengaged from career progression despite doing well at work?

[Bufftailed]

I went to a top Uni and got on a top grad scheme but I don’t think I was ever suited to office work. Got promoted quickly, spent time working abroad, and left after 10 years for another sector. Fast forward another 15 or so years and I am 2/3 through a part time degree with a view to moving into a more active role in a couple of years. I took a part time role (less senior) in same sector and enjoy that, interesting but not too demanding and I have autonomy. If I moved back to similar role I left to study I could earn good money/ progress further

Post- degree role will be a good job, but not high flying. Assuming am successful applying at that age! And I plan to do it, with ok ish salary (less than other sector), for another 15 or so years. Likely have good part time options.

Trajectory of those I started with and stayed on linear path v diff. A lot v high flying. I feel like am a bit apathetic. Bit disengaged. I just love my studying and I like to have a job but am basically a lot below where I could be. Whenever I go in a bit lower I get promoted. Then end up burnt out. I don’t find work overly meaningful although I would not want to not work for many years yet.

Can anyone relate to any of this?? Money has never driven me as happy to do things on the cheap

I can see where your coming from. Not everyone aspires to a high position because they can do without the stress that goes with it. There is nothing wrong with that. It doesn't reflect lack of ambition or ability. More a self knowledge and an acceptance of what makes you content.

The happiest years of my life were when I was at uni as a mature student working for my various degrees. I went through the higher education system in 9 years from undergrad to doctorate. I loved studying and still do. Never been into the corporate way of life because I don't like other people telling me what to do or having authority over me. I hate team work. Now I run a small antiques business and I tutor postgraduates as a side hustle.