FI enabled me to have a little more perspective. I no longer had to value everything I did at work purely on the income it provided. This is a little bit scary, but also incredibly invigorating! FI doesn't necessarily imply you need to RE, but if it's not encouraging you to optimise your life, you're missing out (on something). Work can be very satisfying, but if the work you're doing isn't floating your boat, FI gives you more choices than most to change that up.