After completing my ‘30 Days of Code’ challenge, while starting a new job, and passing the CompTIA Network+ exam, I used a few techniques I learned in school to stay sane and avoid burnout.

When I first started college, it wasn’t that difficult. Then next semester things picked up but my motivation didn’t and I became overwhelmed. But that was the activation energy I needed to take on the next semester with more intensity. Then instead of being stressed, I was excited. And by excited I mean I was able to overcome my stress with enthusiasm. Two major pieces of work that stuck with me that I came across during that time were the following:

  • Persistence: Said by Calvin Coolidge, which is then quoted by Michael Keaton, in the bio-pic of Ray Kroc.
  • Were you one of the “smart kids”?: How the idea of intelligence is what causes them to become distraught and disappointed with their accomplishments.

This went on for about a year, but half way through I lost my momentum and burned-out. It was during spring break, so my hard work from the beginning of the semester made up for my laziness near the end. After unwinding during the summer I lost the fire and was in a daze for a little bit, but was back in the saddle soon enough.

It’s a story not too uncommon in the tech industry, but a few article I read during my recovery were major helps with the recovery process:

  • Brain in a Jar: Your mind is the captain, but you body is the vessel. Maintaining your health (body) is just as important as maintaining your skills (mind).
  • Recovering from Burnout: The explanation is in the title, overall guarding against burn-out is just as, if not more important than intensity.

I’d say that my zoom-and-boom was a great learning experience in a forgiving environment. I also have to thank my friends and family that helped me through it all. If I were to impart any wisdom onto you from all this.