I've noticed that programming has negatively affected my vitality and overall well-being.

After a long day of work, I often feel mentally exhausted with no energy left. Programming takes a significant toll on my health and I have become lazy, apathetic and disinterested in my profession. Moreover, I haven't been able to make time for other hobbies or physical exercise due to the amount of time programming requires.

This lifestyle has led to a decline in my health, including hypertension, gastrointestinal issues, varicocele, prostatitis, and joint pain. Before pursuing programming, I was passionate about sports and martial arts, but now I don't have any time or motivation for them.

To address this issue, I've stopped taking on additional tasks and limit my work to my professional responsibilities. Additionally, I've started to make time for my other hobbies and have returned to physical exercise. However, despite these efforts, I still feel weighed down by the demands of the programming profession.

Has anyone else experienced this? What strategies have you found helpful in maintaining a healthy work-life balance?

P.S.: I am a 28-year-old web developer who initially entered the field with enthusiasm but have grown disillusioned with it over the past three years due to how much time it consumes and the impact it has had on my well-being.

Perhaps I should bookmark your message, as it serves as a prime example of what can happen when one dives into web programming without truly feeling passionate about it. Falling victim to the classic case of "burnout", as described in many psychology textbooks, it may be time for you to consider leaving programming altogether (assuming, of course, that you have some other means of making a living besides the dwindling supply of doshirak in your pantry).

Instead, why not pursue something that you truly enjoy - like sports? Perhaps you could even teach children combat sambo, as being able to defend oneself in such tumultuous times may prove quite useful! Remember, stress often leads to health problems - so take care of yourself and do not push yourself into a state of depression by continuing down a path that does not bring you joy.

When a profession is truly "yours", you can spend decades working in the field and still find satisfaction in it each day. As an admin (or IT specialist, to be more precise), I know this all too well - having been at it for over 30 years (though I try not to think about how long it's actually been!). Each day presents new opportunities to learn and improve, as there is always more to discover in this ever-evolving industry. After all, if you don't continue to grow, you may find yourself becoming stagnant and falling behind the curve.

To put it bluntly, a programmer is not someone who merely creates software, but rather a person who has an inherent passion for programming. Programming is not just a profession or a hobby, it becomes part of the programmer's identity. A programmer is like a physical object, such as a drop of water in zero gravity that takes the shape of a ball. Similarly, if programming is not something that bothers you, then it is meant for you.

According to the author, the concept of burnout is a psychological invention used by specialists to extract money from people and make them believe they are the best. Despite spending long hours at the computer, the author does not suffer from depression or burnout. Algorithms constantly spin in their head, and they occasionally take breaks due to fatigue.

The main difference between a programmer and a software developer is that a true programmer will do interesting work for free. However, there are many so-called web developers who only possess superficial knowledge and create websites without real programming skills.

In conclusion, programming is not just a job or a task, but a way of life for those who truly have a passion for it.

It's not uncommon for any demanding profession to have an impact on one's work-life balance and overall health. Here are a few strategies that you might find helpful:

1. Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries between work and personal life. Avoid working excessively long hours and make sure to take regular breaks during the day.

2. Prioritize Self-Care: Make self-care a priority by incorporating activities that promote physical and mental well-being into your routine. Regular exercise, healthy eating, quality sleep, and relaxation techniques can all contribute to a healthier lifestyle.

3. Find Balance: Make time for activities outside of programming that bring you joy and fulfillment. Rekindling your passion for sports and martial arts can be a great way to add variety and physical activity to your schedule.

4. Seek Support: Connect with others who may be experiencing similar challenges. Share your concerns with friends, family, or colleagues who can offer support and guidance.

5. Consider Alternative Work Arrangements: If possible, explore options such as flexible working hours, remote work, or freelancing. Finding a work arrangement that better suits your needs and allows for a healthier work-life balance can make a significant difference.

6. Time Management: Improve your efficiency by practicing effective time management techniques. Prioritize tasks, set realistic goals, and break down larger projects into smaller, manageable tasks. This can help prevent feelings of overwhelm and allow for better work-life balance.

7. Take Regular Breaks: Incorporate short breaks throughout your workday to rest and recharge. Even a five-minute break to stretch, take a walk, or meditate can make a significant difference in your energy levels and focus.

8. Develop Healthy Habits: Establish a routine that supports your well-being. This can include getting up at a consistent time, scheduling regular exercise sessions, and creating dedicated blocks of time for hobbies, relaxation, and connection with loved ones.

9. Continuous Learning: Engage in ongoing learning and growth within your field. This can help reignite your passion for programming by exploring new technologies, attending conferences or workshops, or joining online communities where you can connect with likeminded professionals.

10. Seek Variety in Work: Look for opportunities to diversify your work tasks within programming. If possible, take on projects that align with your interests or explore different domains or industries. Finding novelty within your profession can increase engagement and motivation.

11. Consider a Career Pivot: If you find that programming no longer brings you fulfillment, it may be worth considering a career change. Explore other fields or roles that align with your interests and skills. This can lead to a fresh start and renewed enthusiasm in your professional life.

12. Practice Mindfulness: Incorporate mindfulness techniques into your daily routine. This can help reduce stress, increase focus, and enhance overall well-being. You can try meditation, deep breathing exercises, or mindfulness-based apps to cultivate mindfulness.

13. Delegate and Collaborate: If you have the opportunity, consider delegating tasks or collaborating with others to share the workload. This can help lighten the burden and free up some time for yourself.

14. Disconnect Regularly: Set boundaries between work and personal life by establishing regular periods of disconnection. Turn off work-related notifications during non-working hours, weekends, or vacations to create dedicated time for yourself and your loved ones.

15. Seek Professional Help if Needed: If your feelings of disillusionment and their impact on your well-being persist, it might be beneficial to seek support from a mental health professional. They can provide guidance and strategies to navigate these challenges effectively.

16. Reflect on Your Career Path: Take some time to reflect on your long-term career goals and aspirations. Assess whether the current trajectory aligns with your personal values and interests. If necessary, consider exploring new avenues or opportunities within the programming field that excite and inspire you.

17. Cultivate a Supportive Network: Surround yourself with colleagues, mentors, or friends who understand your challenges and can offer support and encouragement. Engage in networking events or online communities where you can connect with like-minded individuals facing similar work-life balance issues.