Not a software engineer, but have gone through this. Siva7 is partially correct that coming to this realization is depressing af and can lead to a feedback loo

Not a software engineer, but have gone through this. Siva7 is partially correct that coming to this realization is depressing af and can lead to a feedback loop of negativity that's hard to break. It isn't you though. Really, there are tons of useless roles and companies. See the book Bullshit Jobs. Also, 40 hour work weeks are just ridiculous unbalanced. It's more like 50+ hours when factoring in commuting and lunch etc. I'd offer a few solutions. 1. If you focus on what your life goals are, or what fun things you can do with the money that a full time job brings it can make it more bearable. 2. Find a gig that you can work 32 hours a week—makes all the difference. 3. Build or buy a small business and work your own hours on something you care about. www.empireflippers.com; www.bizbuysell.com A lot of exercise helps too.