Yes, it is a really serious deal! It is IMO one of the banes of an (inSelf) yogi, there are many, making it a most arduous path.

From what I see, the process has to be manifest already by a certain stage in one's practice, but also be in one's tendency in terms of (as you point outside) reduced need to participate.

It is a living and organic process, that results from one's personal experience, attitudinal position, and afforded providential opportunities.

Also, I feel that a reduction in contribution cannot take place without a genuine and authentic contribution to family/ society based on karmic circumstances along with heightened degree objectivity into the performance of indicated participation.
The spiritual goal is more facilitated by a prioritizing of the need for "spiritual survival" (as opposed to material survival and/or subtle material semi-permanence). Altogether, much providential grace is needed.