While this kind of intensity makes sense for founders, especially those deeply invested in their own vision, but it's worth saying out loud that if you're not a principal founder and you're trying to keep up with this kind of work ethic, you should seriously reconsider.

For a long time, I wore being a workaholic like it was a badge of honor. As a solo dev (or working with a very small team), my daily grind often ran 15 to 17 hours. And honestly? It didn’t feel like work, because I was fueled by passion and a clear vision. That drive can be powerful.

But over time, even passion has limits. Mental fatigue creeps in. Burnout follows. What I learned, too late, frankly, is that sustainable output isn’t about how long you can code. It’s about how well you can recover.

I still work long hours, but now I deliberately break that intensity. I’ll do 10 hours of focused top-priority work and spend the rest on creative pursuits like writing, or on valuable family time. For me, that contrast has become essential and healthier. A work-life harmony, and I think that’s closer to what folks like Lucy Guo are describing.

If you're not a founder or equity stakeholder, and you’re pushing long hours for salary and loyalty alone, it’s worth asking: Is this really your mission? Because if it’s not, the cost, mentally and physically, adds up fast.

Just my 2 cents. Hope it helps someone who’s grinding hard right now.

Curious to hear how others are navigating this. What’s been your experience?