The best encouragement I have for this thought trap is to not put your career on a pedestal, and instead find the things you truly want to progress in or enjoy

The best encouragement I have for this thought trap is to not put your career on a pedestal, and instead find the things you truly want to progress in or enjoy and focus on those. In my case, despite being a programmer, I am a creative type. I have found that I routinely need: - 1-2 hours per week playing an instrument or writing - A date with my wife that is scheduled like a meeting that I cannot ignore or cancel - A secondary (or 3rd or 4th) project outside of work, where there is a clear goal and progress is measurable (indie game dev for me)