If you're doing that, then quit. It's not worth it and you'll regret having done this. You'll find another job. Hell, you'll find another job as a programmer. Don't do this to yourself, nor to us.

Sure, OP will find another job as a programmer. But I am sure that their employer will also find another programmer. So saying he is doing it to us sounds kind of disingenuous. "Hate the game, not the player."

For me, the frustrating part is that our society is set up to incentivize value-decreasing behavior like obtrusive advertisements, it doesn't add anything yet still makes money, unlike things that are essential to the world (mundane example: raising children).

Nah, the pay is good and worth it IMO. I see it similar to being a roughneck on an oil rig or even a coal miner. I make no illusions or romanticize the nature of my work.

Most jobs are terrible but they also pay less. I think he’s making the right choice. If you don’t believe in trade offs then you’re probably being taken advantage of.