Soft sounds from another planet

Many of my conversations with my wife, and with others tend to land on career discussions, or about their jobs (usually dissatisfaction).  Maybe it's a function of my age and the age of my peers.  "I question my role everyday, I have no idea what I'm doing anymore..."  seems to be a common refrain.  My sister is also thinking about drastically changing her work situation to spend more time with her kids.

I know that I am actively pulling back my efforts, and being more measured in what I contribute to at work.  I also know that this is the prime of my career, a time in which I should seek aggressively to ascend.  There's a dissonance there, but I can't find a reason to justify the effort to further myself professionally.  I've been questioned at work about my motivations and why even decide to come in, when the perception is that I can be doing more elsewhere.  It's an enviable position, but I struggle to explain, and the words won't come.  I fear that I am lying to myself about my situation, and building complacency with what comes easy.    

I had a recent chat with my mentor about jobs and careers, and it focused on potential.  What happens to unrealized potential?  Is it considered squandered if efforts are not directed towards the most efficient return, but it generates some measure of happiness?    

Japanese breakfast - Soft sounds from another planet.