This resonates with me a lot. I've been through a lot of jobs, each time starting with a combination of excitement ("Yay, I got the job!") and fear ("I hope I don't mess this one up. I've really gotta keep it for at least a year"). The novelty of a new job pushes you through the first month or two, and then things get harder and harder to complete. My mind is buzzing with thoughts, ideas, side projects and they slowly creep into your brain. Before you know it you're sitting at you computer for 8 hours but getting nothing done.

Wishing your brother the best.