These days, people are working harder than has been the case in 40 years, and they're not getting as much for it: One estimate suggests that if wages had tracked worker productivity or gains by the top incomes, the median household income in America would be closer to $85,000 than the current $59,000. That means that a great work ethic used to be optional, but is becoming ever more necessary to simply survive in the world.

This is insanely unfair, but everyone has their own way of coping with it. Some say, "Screw it" and just do the minimum; they know the game is no longer winnable and conclude the only way to win is not to play. The vast majority do their best and try to carve out what space they can for their personal relationships and goals, and if they find a fulfilling, decently paid or stimulating job (or, holy of holies, one that is all three!) then they count their blessings.

Meanwhile, some people double down on the rat race. They figure that if only the top 10 percent are really reaping the rewards, then they need to be in that group. They decide to make like the shire horse Boxer in George Orwell's "Animal Farm" and simply respond to all challenges by saying, "I will work harder!" While some simply don't have the chance to meaningfully choose that option, and others work themselves to the breaking point under the combined weight of paid work, care work and other responsibilities, a few of the super-workers make it through to the sunlit uplands of a balanced life, with fulfilling, well-remunerated work. Which of these sounds like you? Let's find out!