I am a Full Stack Web Developer with around 5 years of experience. Recently, I’ve been feeling a disconnect with my passion for coding and building things. After working mainly in an agency setting, I’m starting to wonder if it’s time to change my career path.
I’ve tried to rekindle my love for coding in my free time, but even then, the excitement seems to have faded. I suspect this could be burnout after years of chasing deadlines, which has been pretty relentless.
In my previous role with a Branding Agency, I had more creative control, but now in a Marketing Agency, I don’t feel the same ownership over my work. I feel more like I’m operating under project management without much say, which is a shift from my earlier experiences.
With all of this in mind, I’m at a crossroads. Should I take a break to think things over, or should I keep pushing through? Would freelancing be a better option for me?
I’d be careful about taking a break. The tech job market isn’t strong right now. Stopping could make it tough to get back in. If you do take a break, what would you opt for instead? Maybe exploring freelancing might be a better move.
@Zander
Don’t risk it. I did something similar, and it became challenging to return to a stable career after a couple of years of underemployment. Each year away from web development puts you further behind.
Agency environments can be mentally exhausting. They’re good for initial experience, but consider applying to mid-sized companies for a more stable product-focused role. Don’t resign until you have another option lined up.
@Yani
Thanks for your advice! I just joined a Marketing Agency but recognize now it’s similar to my past agency situation. I hope to switch to something better.
Work is ultimately a trade of your time for money. The type of work you’ve been doing is often underappreciated and stressful. You have valuable skills and experience, consider exploring opportunities that allow you to create on your own terms.
Don’t quit without securing your next job first. Getting anxious about work is a sign to start looking around. Agency jobs can lead to burnout–consider an in-house position instead.
I was in your shoes before. After agency work, I transitioned to a larger tech company, which offered more stability and a higher salary. It might not be as fun, but it allows you to innovate within a larger framework.
Have you thought about working for a company that builds its own products, rather than one that builds for others? That could provide a sense of ownership.
From my experience, digital agencies can be demanding. The pressure to deliver can overshadow creativity. Internal projects usually allow for better planning and a more satisfying work environment.
Agency work often prioritizes quick results over quality. Consider looking for positions where you can work on internal projects; they can be much more gratifying.
I felt similarly after working as a front-end engineer, so I returned to university for a degree. I took a break, but now I’m struggling to balance everything when I return to work.
This is a normal part in your career. It’s common to experience a shift in passion. Listen to yourself and see if there’s still something in your work you enjoy.
Consider seeking a job with less hectic deadlines to help you rediscover your passion. Freelancing has its own challenges, so contemplate your options!