I relate 100%. Switch back to a technical leadership role from people management at the start of the year, after three years as an EM.

It’s like a massive weight off my shoulders, and I appreciate the time I get to focus without distraction now.

Great thing is since I proved myself in that role, they kept my compensation the same in the IC role, so there’s really been no downside thus far.

Might reconsider once my toddler and infant have grown up a bit more, but right now an IC role is just the ticket again.