"my two dogs didn't recognize me"

Last night I was invited to a conference dinner organize by the young executives association here in Madrid. Twenty people around a table at a famous Hotel at Gran Via. Those words were pronounced by a successful and famous Spanish ex-CEO of a big consultancy (80.000 employees worldwide). He talked mainly about his professional career and experiences. It was interesting (a few good ideas) but at the same time a bit disappointing.. I will tell you why.
He have worked very hard all his live, probably too much. While having dinner, he told us a story. At his middle-age, he was assigned to a one-year very challenging-project and traveling a lot was part of it. Brazil, Japan, USA, South Africa,… Apparently, one day he came back home and his two dogs didn’t recognize him… I wondered then what about his wife.. but decided not to say anything and keep on listening… :-)
How can anyone be proud of something like that? He insisted in the importance of be exigent with oneself and others but for Christ’s sake till what point!
He started the speech describing his philosophy for live, he made us think that you have to choose between your personal live or be professionally successful.
Well, I DO NOT agree with him.
What about you?
Thanks and smile,

Dk