Just turned down a big project to keep my sanity

Had to choose between a 3-month contract with a client known for last-minute changes or a smaller, steady gig with a local startup. I picked the smaller one, even though it meant about $5k less upfront. After two weeks, I'm already sleeping better and hitting my other deadlines. Anyone else had to walk away from money to protect their work-life balance?

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the_holly5mo ago

You said you're already sleeping better after two weeks. That's huge. I'm curious, was there a specific moment that made you realize the extra money wasn't worth it? Like, a past project with a similar client that burned you out?

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grayc275mo ago

Used to chase every dollar until it cost me my health.

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troy8324mo ago

Used to be one of those "grind harder" types. Thought people who talked about burnout were just weak or making excuses. Then I watched my own body start falling apart after back to back doubles and a side hustle I was trying to keep alive. Wound up in the ER with chest pain that turned out to be stress induced. That scare flipped a switch. No amount of overtime pay is worth feeling like you're dying at 32.

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