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?

3 comments

3 Comments

the_holly1mo 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?

grayc271mo ago

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

troy83219d 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.