Is it really about money?

No. I do what I do because:

a. I think I can do a better job doing what I believe in, without compromising on my values.

b. I know who I am and what I stand for. My self perception is not jaundiced by what the world around me thinks is in vogue or not.

c. I would rather have the choice of deciding what is right or wrong and then do what is right (and at times wrong) fully aware of the consequences of my actions.

d. Linked with self awareness is my belief that in the long run I can create more value, better, faster, cheaper than the next guy, not working for himself.