Years ago when offered a raise at a previous job I asked for less working hours instead. So nowadays I get paid to work 32 hours a week, but still work a normal 40-hour work week. That gives me 8 hours / week at the office for hobby software projects, and more than enough time in the evenings and weekends to spend time with family and friends.
That's a very interesting approach to career progression, I like it! Wonder how well such a request would be received in most occupations? A higher wage is nice, but more free time is infinitely more valuable.
