I've given up on promotions and stuff. I have a wife and kid with medical issues that saps my energy/focus and doesn't allow me to work extra hours with all my home responsibilities.
When, hopefully in a very long time, you're in your deadbead, you'll be happy you spent time with them and made an impact. You won't regret not using in more projects or longer hours.
There's going to be regret and resentment no matter which he chooses. Let's not sugarcoat it.