Interesting way of thinking, some people (most of them) feels better following the norm though. It's supposed to be like that anyway ;). However, my lifestyle is not much different than yours, and I get what you're talking about. Keep in mind that not everyone with the potential can actually find his best way :).

One more thing. For your friend, money means safety. For you, the validation of your own value ;). Basically, you are looking for different things in life :).

My written English is still bad, but I hope you get the message