Why is it that when I hear people talk about their "career" they are usually talking about all the work they do outside their job in order to keep their job?

Sure, I could earn more by aligning myself with a career path, but at what cost? And that's only thinking about how much time outside the job that I'd be doing all those little things that people say are needed: networking, continuing education, etc. Also add in trying to get certs or education BEFORE even getting such a career? I just don't see that it will improve my life long term.

I just want to work, earn my money, and go home. I don't want to have to think about the job while not at it.