about:

- Many DBAs don’t work typical 40 hour weeks. Many work weeknights, weekends, and holidays, all without any overtime pay.

i think dba's can blame themselves a bit also. if you just do everything and only know the word yes: the demand on you as dba will only grow. sometimes you have to hit the break. realize that keeping your self in a good shape is also important for the company. i've noticed people in general forget that part often. the ultimate "hit the break" is finding a new employer.

in my opinion an ideal dba also has good communication and influential skills and is aware of the human (political) environment around him/her. i say ideal cause i've only seen one dba who mastered that (not me). this part, if by heart your a technical person, is difficult. it's probably why some dba's are called "senior".