@analoguefan this is a great post. Unfortunately, it's because I can so empathize and have had these very same thoughts. Especially in today's wild and crazy non stop world we now live in. I have spent so much time and money getting my system to exactly where I want it to be. Except between work, taking care of daily chores and errands, and then trying to get everything done that I can't get to on the weekends, I literally find I have no time to sit, relax, and enjoy my system and music. I will flat out admit then when I sit down for my critical listen, this is something I can only do alone. My wife loves music and so appreciates the sound, but for the critical listening that is something I do alone. I just do not have the time. My system does double duty for music and tv/movies. Fortunately, this is something we both enjoy together. So, on the weekends we at least get to enjoy what we have watching a good mystery documentary or horror flick.
But critical music listening is where my heart is and why I went to the lengths I have to put this system together. I guess for now I just take advantage when I can. Like this morning my wife had to work so I battened down the hatches, grabbed my chair, shut the curtains, and got lost in the music. Though wishing your life away is so not something you want to do, I find myself yearning for retirement and for the next 5-7 years to fly by so I can have the time to listen more...
You ain't alone my friend I feel you...