I fail to understand, in our modern society, why we retain this system of management-worker relations that is more appropriate to the mid-twentieth century. We rarely have strikes anymore (the ones that stand out are those by millionaire athletes, not laborers). We have effectively replicated the feudal system in modern times, with management operating as the king's court, complete with courtiers vying for executive favors. The best advice I can give my children (and this goes for more than just IT careers - doctors and lawyers play this game too) is to be mediocre at your job, but excel at playing the corporate system. Since government is likewise organized, and the corporate world wields so much power, this arrangement is not likely to change without a revolution - economic or otherwise.

If you are a certain type personality and find your work enjoyable, you will work all your waking hours. If your boss has to ask, the people being asked are either not that personality or the work is not enjoyable. (NOTE: working all your waking hours isn't really a good idea as it isn't sustainable and you are in danger of burning out.) If you are of that personality and your work is that enjoyable, be sure telecommunting options are available and work your own schedule. And get an ownership stake, you'll be even more motivated.

There are still pockets of brainy goodness out there. EVE Online is a great hardcore business simulator. Incidentally, it also happens to have combat -- but that's not necessarily central to the game.