Developer Burnout

Nov 5, 2017 10 Comments

I appear to be doing well career-wise, with a senior development position with good pay and benefits. I am definitely in a privileged position. But I am feeling completely burnt out. I have worked at this company for a long time and am tired of the politics and subject matter and the thought of going into work tomorrow or even opening my laptop gives me severe anxiety. I have tried interviewing around but never seem to quite seal the deal, and frankly, the prospect of doing this job at another big company is just depressing to me.

I have a nice nest egg in the bank and would be able to pay for things without work for a year+ (though I suppose healthcare could be a pain after COBRA runs out). I have creative interests outside the world of software I would like to pursue, and travel goals. But I just feel frozen because I've got the golden handcuffs and a cushy situation, and everyone I talk to gives me different advice.

I'd appreciate any insight from others who have dealt with burnout. I guess I'm just scared. I know that my issues don't all originate from my job and I could really do with a more balanced lifestyle, but it really feels like getting this drudgery out of the way would be a big load off and give me some space.

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TOP 10 Comments
  • I was in a similar boat at Microsoft. I was working very long hours every single work day and would get depressed every Sunday thinking about having to go into work the next day to start the grind all over again for the week. It took its toll on my family life with my wife and daughter as well. I consciously took a step back in my role about 6 months ago because I also had some issues to deal with with my mom's health. Most people think I got demoted, even though it was my choice, and that was embarrassing. I am doing okay now, some days I am grateful that I'm not in the day ace building my career and some days I regret not keeping my head down and moving forward. For the most part, I think I made the right move. Saved a lot of money and am financially secure so I don't need a high paying job to sustain my family. I would take a break before you really burn out
    Nov 5, 2017 1
  • VMware
    cashc0w

    Go to company page VMware

    cashc0w
    All I hear is Salesforce has great work life balance. Is that not true anymore or is this specific to your team? If so, maybe you should change teams
    Nov 5, 2017 0
  • Microsoft / Eng
    πŸ’£TheNutπŸ’£

    Go to company page Microsoft Eng

    BIO
    The original, one and only S Nutella!! Bam Bam Lolol!!
    πŸ’£TheNutπŸ’£
    Cannabis.
    Nov 5, 2017 2
  • Cisco / Mgmt
    Changeling

    Go to company page Cisco Mgmt

    Changeling
    Do you have a long-term disability insurance at your company? Diagnosed depression and anxiety would help you stay ins. covered and employed. Worth checking with a doctor.
    Nov 6, 2017 1
  • Hubspot / Sales
    QGYG20

    Go to company page Hubspot Sales

    PRE
    Apple
    QGYG20
    How about finding a start up to work at? With your background I’m sure you could get a nice title and more creative flexibility. Having worked at 2 startups I can say what you do every day has a real impact. Most of them will have pretty good health bennies and flexible work environments.
    Nov 7, 2017 0