Navigating Burnout in Cybersecurity: A Personal Reflection

After dedicating three years to the field of cybersecurity, backed by a Master’s degree and experience with prominent employers, I find myself grappling with a profound sense of burnout. While my credentials and job history might suggest success, the reality I face day-to-day tells a different story.

The relentless drive to enhance my skills has become a source of fatigue rather than a pathway to fulfillment. Each workday feels like a struggle, as I often find myself compressing tasks that should rightfully span two or three days into a single eight-hour stint, all to meet what feel like impossible expectations.

It’s important to clarify that my discontent doesn’t stem from a dislike for cybersecurity itself; I genuinely appreciate the work I do. However, the practicalities of the role have morphed into a taxing routine. The typical 9-to-5 workload often extends beyond hours, leaving me exhausted at the end of the day. By the time evening rolls around, I’m usually too drained to engage in my personal interests or even tackle necessary errands. This cycle of work, minimal rest, and the rare vacation only to return to the same grind has taken a toll.

I find myself questioning whether this is simply what burnout feels like, if I might be in an unsuitable role, or if this experience is a commonplace aspect of the tech and cybersecurity landscape. The exhaustion is palpable, and it has led me to ponder what I am truly working towards.

I wonder—are there others who share this sentiment? If you’ve experienced similar feelings in your career, how have you navigated through them? Let’s discuss and support one another in this challenging yet essential industry.