Senior executives possess a different mindset than most general workers; including perseverance, posture, and work politics. When these three elements are coupled together effectively this creates an expectation of high compensation; only if demonstrated performance warrants the advanced reward levels.
Being a senior executive is a chosen lifestyle and image that few can truly achieve. Creating and maintaining a personal brand takes much energy, motivation, and strategy. Not everyone has the potential and qualifications to take on the continued responsibility.
You may think Senior Leadership has it easy, but it is much like a film actor evolving into a complex role and maintaining that posture and image through their tenure.
Watch how Senior Leadership leads, with an open mind, and you may eventually understand why only the true chosen ones are capable of taking on these roles.
Disclaimer:
If you believe ANY of the above whatsoever, you indeed deserve to continue to wallow infintely in a big company in managed decline.
:)
Now get out there and do something about this perpetual mundane existence you have woven yourself into. It is never too late!