Finding Balance: Software Development and Life Beyond Code
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Chapter 1: The Reality of Software Development
It's a common truth that many software developers begin to lose their passion for coding as they reach their mid-30s. In my twenties, I believed I would be coding forever. Spending 8 to 12 hours daily immersed in programming felt exhilarating, and perhaps you’re currently experiencing this thrill, or have felt it before. However, long-term dedication without balance often leads to burnout, and that’s when the decline begins.
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Section 1.1: Recognizing the Signs of Overexertion
As a developer, it's crucial to be aware of the signs that indicate you're overdoing it:
- Sleep Deprivation: In my quest to maximize learning time, I once experimented with minimal sleep, reducing my rest to just 1.5 hours a day for two weeks. This left me utterly fatigued, to the point of near hallucination. Contrary to popular belief, you can’t function on such little sleep over an extended period.
- Social Isolation: Every moment is meticulously planned, and spending time with friends or family feels like a "waste." You might think that your time is better utilized by diving into books, watching tutorials, or coding.
- Loss of Enjoyment in Hobbies: I’ve encountered avid gamers who, upon being asked about their current games, would respond, "I don’t play much anymore; I mainly study." These were individuals who once found relaxation in gaming but had since distanced themselves from it.
- Neglecting Physical Activity: At this extreme, even exercising seems unnecessary. You might convince yourself that if you could just code a bit more, everything would be perfect, neglecting your health in the process.
Section 1.2: The Burnout-Productivity Cycle
In your younger years, you might remain oblivious to signs of burnout, functioning like a machine. My coworkers even called me "Robot" for my ability to work eight hours and then spend another eight on side projects or studying.
Eventually, however, the fatigue creeps in. Initially, it may strike just once a year, leaving you unmotivated to code or socialize. You might find yourself staring blankly at your screen, struggling to find the motivation to engage in your work.
After realizing you need a break, you take a few days off to binge-watch shows on Netflix. This temporary respite may give you a quick recharge, but after a few months, that same sense of burnout returns, leading to a cyclical pattern of exhaustion.
Like someone on a diet, this unsustainable routine can leave you questioning your career path. You might start contemplating a drastic shift, pondering whether to abandon programming altogether for a different field, perhaps farming. Ultimately, you may decide to step back from coding and transition into a leadership or project management position.
Chapter 2: Embracing a Healthier Lifestyle
There are developers in their 40s who have found happiness in their careers, suggesting that a successful formula exists. You know what changes you need to make, yet you might resist them.
- Let Go of Deadlines: Projects and deadlines will always be present, but they shouldn’t dictate your personal life. How often have you promised yourself, "Once I finish this project, I'll start exercising"? You'll always find another project to tackle.
- Get Outside: It’s essential to leave your home each day, whether it’s visiting the gym, meeting friends, or simply exploring a store. The goal is to distance yourself from your coding obsession.
- Set Work Boundaries: Even if you have side projects that you’re passionate about, establish a reasonable cutoff time for work. Aim for an end time like 8:00 PM instead of midnight. Make time for your favorite show or socialize with friends.
If you don’t shift your lifestyle, you risk burning out to the point of abandoning coding altogether. Stop waiting for that elusive moment when you’ll "live" once you reach a certain level in software development—it may never come.
Life is Hell after Becoming a Software Developer: This video explores the challenges and mental health struggles faced by software developers, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a work-life balance.
Is Programming Stealing Your Life Away?: A discussion about how excessive programming can lead to lifestyle imbalances and the need for personal time and activities outside of coding.
Dino Cajic serves as the Head of IT at multiple organizations and is the CEO of his own company. With over a decade of software engineering experience and a B.S. in Computer Science, he specializes in enterprise-level e-commerce solutions and research-based software development. Connect with him on various platforms to follow his insights and experiences.