> the myth that working stupid hours and abusing yourself (and others) From re-reading the article, it sounds like there's only one of those factors in play -

> the myth that working stupid hours and abusing yourself (and others) From re-reading the article, it sounds like there's only one of those factors in play - working stupid hours. It sounds like the management at Google are appreciative and actively looking out for people. Which gels with my experience - for most people that I know and have read of who have burned out, it's been a combination of long hours, feeling unappreciated/exploited and being trapped somehow, due to obligation, financial commitment or "We've got to finish this damn game!". (This guy: http://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=3768219 http://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=3768219 seems to have burnout-proofed himself by being willing to quit when things get rough and aren't getting better) If you had the most awesome job that you could think of, with perks and people appreciating what you do, it might be possible to work 100 hour weeks for years and not go crazy.