Ask HN: Early career burnt out at Big Tech, what to do?
I joined two years ago after graduating. It felt like a dream: opportunities like this, you can’t say no. However, over time it feels like I’m reaching a point where work is deteriorating my health. I had a panic attack yesterday.
I feel drained every day. Not tired, exhausted. I don’t have the energy to follow my passions after work. End of day I’m in a trance state where even the slightest thought is too energy consuming.
Early morning meetings are draining. Even just half hour earlier than usual throws me off. (I’m neurodivergent)
Major projects overlap—there’s no calm moment to focus on smaller things.
I’m very productive but the work is never ending. I’m trying to slow down but sometimes the pressure is intense.
I look at others managing so well, achieving their responsibilities and I feel inadequate.
This job is a great opportunity that enables me to do so many things. Save for retirement, new experiences, etc. Simultaneously, I see the long term horizon and all I see is many more years of this…
How can I take control of this situation? Leaving is not an option. Does anyone have strategies on how to manage for a young engineer?