I'm Takashi Fujioka, a 35-year-old software engineer. I've been working in the technology industry for about a decade, but recently I've been feeling a bit depressed. My workload is so high that it's hard to find time for myself. I've been losing touch with friends, and I've been unable to spend much time with my family.
Problems and solutions
Problem:
Name: Takashi Fujioka
Occupation: Software Engineer
Country: Japan
City: Tokyo
I'm Takashi Fujioka, a 35-year-old software engineer. I've been working in the technology industry for about a decade, but recently I've been feeling a bit depressed. My workload is so high that it's hard to find time for myself. I've been losing touch with friends, and I've been unable to spend much time with my family.
The worst thing is that the love I had for my work seems to be disappearing. I used to enjoy learning new technologies, but now everything feels like a burden of responsibility. I feel like I'm just living a mechanical life, with no room for feelings, dreams, or pleasures.
Is there any way out of this feeling?
Solution:
Dear Takashi,
First of all, let me say that these feelings of yours are normal. We all have these feelings at some point in our lives. You are just working, but the other colors of life seem to be fading away—this is a really difficult reality. But believe me, there is a way out of this.
1. Life is not work, work is part of life.
Your work is not your identity, it's just a part of your life. But sometimes we get so involved with our work that everything else takes a back seat. You need to see yourself from a distance—not through the eyes of a programmer, but through the eyes of a human being.
2. Find small joys.
We often think that happiness is about getting something big or achieving great success. But the truth is, happiness is hidden in the little things. A cup of coffee in the morning, a favorite old book, or an evening walk away from the busy city streets - try to enjoy these small moments.
3. Make time for yourself.
You might be thinking, "Where is the time with all this work?" But you have to make time. Set aside at least 30 minutes every day just for yourself. No screens during this time—write something on paper, listen to music, or go outside and spend time in nature. You'll see, your brain will slowly become refreshed.
4. Don't stress about learning something new, enjoy it.
You got into this because you love technology. But now you feel like you're tired of learning. So try to see learning as fun, not a responsibility. Learn something that's not related to work—like playing a new instrument, drawing, or learning a new language.
5. Restore relationships
Talk to friends, spend more time with family. In the hustle and bustle of life, we often forget that it is the people close to us who give us strength. Call an old friend suddenly, and you will see how wonderful the feeling will be.
6. Allow yourself to stop sometimes.
We always want to do something, as if being busy is the only way to find meaning in life. But sometimes, let yourself stop. Go somewhere—somewhere in the mountains or by the sea. Give yourself a little vacation, where you can just be, doing nothing.
7. Dream new dreams.
You might be thinking, "I've reached the peak of my career, what's next?" But the truth is, life doesn't just follow a straight line. You can dream a new dream—maybe one day you'll start your own startup, or maybe one day you'll start writing! Have the courage to dream a new dream.
Dear Takashi, you are not alone. Many of us go through times when we feel like we have lost our way. But life does open new doors if we keep looking. Just be kind to yourself, give it some time, and everything will be fine.
Best wishes,
Askly Help