I'm a senior DevOps Engineer with nearly 15 years in the field, and I've reached a point of complete burnout. Recently, after starting a new job, I realized that I can't keep doing this. Despite having a decent salary, I only end up with about three hours of free time each day, which is just not worth it anymore. I'm looking for ideas on potential career changes since I'm open to taking a significant pay cut just to have a fulfilling life again. One option I thought about is teaching DevOps skills, but I'm unsure if it would be an improvement or just lead to more stress.
6 Answers
Setting boundaries is really important. I've had to be clear with my employer that I can't spend all my personal time on tech stuff anymore. If you're looking to transition, think about what actually brings you fulfillment. Since you're open to a pay cut, explore roles that prioritize a good work-life balance. Maybe more project-based work might suit you better instead of always being on-call.
Maybe consider consulting? That way, you can leverage your skills without the heavy on-call demands. I made that shift, and it allows for better management of your schedule—plus, many companies prefer to hire consultants for specific projects without 24/7 responsibilities.
Since you mentioned only having three hours of free time, have you thought about seeking a position that offers a better balance? It's possible to find companies that value your experience while giving you the time to enjoy life outside of work. Some roles in sales engineering or customer support can also be technically rewarding while offering decent pay without the hectic lifestyle.
Remember, it's okay to reassess your career path every few years. I’ve switched roles multiple times and have found that diversifying interests can prevent burnout. Explore various roles or even hobbies to find new passions outside of tech, it could help you regain the joy you once had.
Wow, your experience resonates with me! After 8 years in tech, I also faced similar burnout and eventually stepped away. I explored various options but struggled to find something that paid as well. It can be tough, but don't hesitate to rethink what you're after. Your happiness matters!
Funny you mention teaching; it's kind of like being on-call for kids, right? But seriously, teaching can be rewarding if you truly enjoy it. Just be aware that it might come with its own set of challenges, especially with grading and managing student expectations. But if you love sharing knowledge, it could be a great path for you.
There's definitely no comparison. If teaching is your passion, it can be really fulfilling!