That is why it is so celebrated when someone is able to do what they love and simultaneously earn money. They are able to continuously learn and earn. Also, it makes it a hell of a lot easier to enjoy new experiences when you have the resources (Time being the key one) to do so. I do think a healthy balance between having financial goals and recognizing that those goals exist to provide necessities like food/shelter but also to provide life experiences (not bling) is important.

For me, someday being able to focus only on projects of interest -music, art perhaps a startup that I find interesting, while being assured that I can provide for my family securely would be ideal. But this won't just fall in to my lap, I need to set financial goals in order to get there.

I agree that our learned skills and abilities are our true wealth. I absolutely agree with that. That is why when someone loses one via injury (brain damage etc) it is considered one of our greatest human tragedies.

I do realize that new experiences and learning can occur with little to no money, but to have the sort of worldly experiences that I would someday like to have will take more resources.