I transitioned from being a tech lead to a manager. I hated it. I had an awkward conversation with my manager and we figured it was possible to switch back. O

I transitioned from being a tech lead to a manager. I hated it. I had an awkward conversation with my manager and we figured it was possible to switch back. Once I did that, I found I missed parts of management. I had an even more awkward conversation and was able to switch back, but keeping some technical aspects. Later I switched to a new area and found myself a beginner again, and had to build up the skills, successes and then the recognition that comes with them. Now maybe in the future I’ll be using those old skills and contacts once more! It’s ok to feel discontent and do something about it. It’s ok to have second thoughts and course-correct. It’s better to take an active interest in your career progression than sit and hope someone does something for you. Practical advice: 1. Good line managers often have some latitude and will to help you; you just need to discuss it openly. 2. As an individual contributor I feel you have a lot of control over your hours. Stop working so many. It’s ok to tell people no, that can only be done by X date; they don’t know anyway, they’re not the IC. 3. You don’t need to turn back time. You have learned a lot and this will make you more valuable as a future manager. Including about yourself. Tell your reporting chain you have learned enough about this side of the business and want to move back to management. Apply for management roles internally and externally. Get over your pride and hit up your old friend and see if they have a position for you. Relationships matter more than smarts. Edit: send me a DM if you want to talk, happy to help someone else through this. It was a difficult time for me for sure. Handle is in my about page.