I haven't worked 40 hours for the last 25 years. Most weeks are 60+. I also haven't punched a time clock over the last 25 years either. Work stops when the results are delivered, not when the clock strikes a particular hour. The reward for those wretched hours is a larger gross income and an enormously larger tax burden than people who punch a clock. Coaching sports is a perk that clock punchers enjoy as part of their leisure time. Work responsibilities are suspended when the clock strikes the end of the appointed work hours. The leisure time and ability to walk away from the job at an appointed time are a non-monetary compensation.
My vacation hours are at max and normal accrual is suspended i.e. the company is getting a free ride by not compensating me for earned vacation time by accrual or monetary payout. I have 3 national holidays that I've deferred this year. I hope I can take some of that time off before the end of the fiscal year. It goes in the dumper otherwise. Frankly, I don't have much sympathy for people who only work a 40 hour week and have lots of time for personal activities.
I would laugh at this comment, as it is so ludicrous, but you sound like my bosses, so I wouldn't want to offend you....
"Frankly, I don't have much sympathy for people who only work a 40 hour week and have lots of time for personal activities."
You've made a choice. A conscious choice. You mentioned that in compensation for your efforts you have more money, and don't punch a clock. I'd be willing to bet your employment is more varied and stimulating than a factory job.
I do ok financially. I could have been wealthy, I knew the path, I knew the trade offs. I settled for a comfortable life where I could coach. Where I could see my family. I'm ok with that. And I'm ok with those who have less, but work less or vice versa.
So, rather than accept your fate, and realize their are other paths, you're bitter. Nice choice. If everyone works 60 hours, and no vacations, who coaches? An asset we don't need to worry about?
You want congratulated for your hard efforts, well, ask your family if you being missing is worth it?
You also seem to say screw anyone who doesn't take your path. From the school of "I walked to school 5 miles in the snow, uphill, both ways... and you should too"
Take a few hours off. Go see your family.