As you can see "we" are finding it hard to agree on what is the best path. Of course this is because the "best path" is usually very custom for each individual. For me I was in management for a while and realized that it was not my best skill set. My career path for the last 10 years has been to be an independent consultant. I should point out that my interpersonal skills are excellent so I am able to fit into different work environments with relative ease. But like all paths there is risk in being a consultant. I just turned 50 and I am still happily coding away.