Thoughts after leaving my latest software engineering job

[plastikcow76]

I don't normally share this type of thing, but I'm trying out the practice of sharing both good and bad parts of my life online. I think we are often hurting and just want to talk to a friend who can relate, but if everyone's profile is just a highlight reel, we don't think such a friend exists

Comments

Truth

[ext_5281696]

This is so much truth that needs to be spoken. Like you I loved my last job. The work was interesting, I was able to work with every technology out there - and I loved my coworkers. But as with every previous job, the number of hours needed to attain the desired outcome was almost always more than 40 a week. And the fear of having to sit through a retrospective where every failure is examined with a microscope was even more motivation to keep going at 2am

RE: Truth

[plastikcow76]

Thank you so much for sharing, Michelle. That second paragraph nails it. I'm on the up and up, and I'm so glad you've found a place that (I hope) meets your needs and feels right.

Thoughts from a "seasoned" Citizen who loves you ...

[anonymous]

Good for you for coming to this realization in such an early decade of your life! Mine came much later. And at the end of life no one says, "Gee, I wish I had worked harder or more hours or finished another project." I'm guessing most are regretful they didn't spend more time with those who matter or on things that matter. And you're right, its not just the choices of how to spend time and the relationships that are affected, but there is a real toll on both physical and mental health

RE: Thoughts from a "seasoned" Citizen who loves you ...

[plastikcow76]

Wow, that's so refreshing to hear. Thanks Aunt Dawn. And thank you for sharing your story as well. That's a great mantra to have, and you're so right - it's important to spend time with people who matter on things that matter, and it's easy to lose track of that. I'm so blessed to be part of your family.

[classythumbtack]

Plastikcow! Now that's a username I haven't seen in a while. I figured out my livejournal username to post this.

Anyway, just wanted to drop in to say, I think this is normal! I think it's ok to go through this phase, to think you are doing the right thing and focusing on work all the time everything, and we're all still figuring this out as we figure out 100% availability culture, and it's OK that you had to take time to figure that out. I appreciate your reflection. I'm glad that you are "free" to just be now. It's a good place to be :)

[plastikcow76]

Thanks for dropping by. "Classythumbtack" takes me back! I'm definitely in a good place now, and I'm excited to find out what's on the road ahead :)