I'd encourage you to dig a couple levels deeper. Time is wasted when the value of what you're spending it on is less than the opportunity cost of what you coul

I'd encourage you to dig a couple levels deeper. Time is wasted when the value of what you're spending it on is less than the opportunity cost of what you could be spending it on [1]. What is the opportunity cost of you not learning more about software engineering? In other words, what is the goal you're not working toward? And then, if you want to go deeper: why is that the goal? Is it extrinsic? Do you want to get better at work so you can rise up in the company and get more money? Are you trying to gain the experience to someday start your own company? Is it intrinsic? Is there a topic you're interested in learning about for its own sake? A side project you want to build? In my leisure time, I prioritize intrinsic interests: hobbies or side projects that I find personally fulfilling. It might be that you still find yourself gravitating toward computer science or related fields — and that's okay! There's no rule that says your vocation and avocations need to be unrelated. Of course, everyone is different, and you're free to pursue extrinsic interests in your leisure time too. Just try to keep perspective — in the end, the rat race doesn't matter, and you'll probably think back more fondly on time spent with meaningful people and activities. Either way, keep in mind that burnout is very real, and you can indeed have too much of a good thing. Watching a movie with friends or playing a game with your family can make the hours you spend learning more effective! [1] For example, writing a long comment on HN instead of finishing a song you've been writing ;)