Don't worry, everyone's a low achiever compared to somebody else, at least in some form or other. I'm a wage slave myself, with a long history in the telecomms and data areas (history, rather than career; they happen to other people!). I also don't particularly like the festive season as it seems to start late September, thereby messing you about for 3 months or more, I've had enough by the time it all arrives.
All I can say is I try and pride myself on not screwing anybody else to get where I am today, not something that can be said of many who attempt or reach 'high-flyer' status. Present company excluded of course!
With regard to watches, I was in London in July, and it was so much fun walking down Bond Street looking at all the magnificently over the top jewelry and watches which I will not affort. there was no pressure at all with regard to choices, just entertainment value really (and the way these shops take themselves SO seriously, when not many of them really seem to know that much about some of their stock)
All the best from another depressed soul. I hope I can do something to meet you, but I live in Northumberland, and travel to the Smoke all takes a bit of arranging.
Cheers,
tim