Then why the "Ignore it all" ? You're basically saying what other people and I have said more succinctly "Quit your job". Don't get me wrong, I think your analysis brings a lot to the table and it's great to have different people give their own input in different ways.

But your point isn't fundamentally different than what has been said despite what you suggest in your first paragraph. The choice the OP faces doesn't depend of "times in life", as a general rule one"s job should fit in the life balance he has chosen, not the other way around.

I totally agree with : "If you're carrying anxiety home, you better have a significant stake in the company". This is what I called his best interest. Unless you cash in 5 of 6 figures bonuses at the end of the year, don't give too much to your work, learn to leave at 5. It really isn't wise to do otherwise, even business wise. If your employer tries to set you working like a senior executive as a norm, you're being fucked. And reading your post I have a sense that you're being fucked, that's why I suggest you to find a new job.