I got a big boost in quality of life when I dropped down to 4 day weeks.<p>Working a full time job, I had gone from my usual "doctor visit every 10 years" to "doctor visit at least once a year", with an added flu or something each year on top of that. So when kid #2 came along, I used the excuse to drop down to 4 day weeks, and once the family was ticking away on all cylinders again I started using that extra day for climbing, cycling, and other "selfish" things. The idea being that this was "my day" and not just an extra day to do errands.<p>Boy what a difference it made. I haven't had more than a case of the sniffles since. I'm healthier, happier, and get to spend more time with the family.<p>I've since packed in the job entirely (to live off my business stuff full time) but if I do ever take another full time job, I'll be sure to negotiate 4 (or even 3) day weeks in to the contract. It's just night and day.
Being able to self-sustain myself so I don't need my full-time job. Either through contracting work, my own startup, or my job's options being worth something.
Finding a social group closer to my own age in the area where I live. All my friends are 20 years older than me, and they're great friends, but there's no opportunity for dating at all nearby.
Getting a quality 7 hours of sleep every night, 7 days a week...oh and giving up alcohol(or at least drink only on weekends) which is easier said than done.
Living near a warm ocean. It's one of the very few public activities that you can enjoy collectively with a group of strangers. It is relaxing whether you swim or just sit in awe of it. Miami Beach on a Saturday Morning is enjoyable if you live here... On vacation it doesn't feel the same.<p>Clearwater Beach is also enjoyable.
Getting solid sleep each night, removing processed carbs from my diet, weight lifting, stoicism and having fu* money enough for the next 10 years (which is second/higher level effect of the previous ones).