Maybe you should do less 'work' (johnwhiles.com)

Article summary

The article argues that working as hard as possible without considering expectations can lead to burnout and is not beneficial to one's career. It suggests that individuals should understand what is expected of them and allocate their time accordingly, focusing on learning, networking, and personal growth. The author encourages readers to use their time wisely, rather than simply taking on more tasks. By doing so, individuals can benefit themselves and their employers.

Main themes

• productivity
• career growth
• work-life balance
• leadership
• politics
• self-care
• complacency
• excellence

What commenters say

• Working excessively hard does not necessarily lead to promotions, but rather more work.
• Some argue that displaying leadership qualities and politics are crucial for career advancement, while others believe that being liked by management is equally important.
• The idea of working smarter, not harder, is seen as a more effective approach to productivity and career growth.
• Others disagree, suggesting that high performers are motivated by a desire to excel and deliver high-quality results, rather than simply pleasing their bosses.
• Some commenters argue that the article's message is not about working less, but about working better and smarter.
• The importance of self-care, relaxation, and enjoying one's work is also highlighted in the discussion.
• There is a perceived normalization of complacency and subpar results in the industry, which some see as a concerning trend.
• Others counter that this perception is not accurate and that many professionals, including software developers, value hard work and excellence.