Juggling Multiple Projects: A Productivity Boost or a Fast Track to Burnout?

Published on Nov 12, 2024

About a Year Into My First Job: The Start of Side Projects

About a year into my first job, I dove into the world of side projects. My first gig? A modest $4 an hour. It wasn’t about the money; it was about the learning. Each task was a stepping stone toward something bigger—a brighter opportunity in the future. At the time, burnout wasn’t on my radar. I was fueled by the thrill of growth and the belief that every ounce of effort would pay off down the line.

My routine was intense. I’d leave work early, dive headfirst into side project tasks, sleep maybe four hours, and repeat. Weekends? Full-on grind mode. But I didn’t mind. I told myself, I’m a grinder, not the smartest, but relentless effort will set me apart.

The Pros of Juggling Multiple Projects

There’s no denying the perks of taking on more than one project at a time:

  • Extra income: Even small gigs add up over time.
  • Learning new tools and languages: Exposure to different tech stacks boosts versatility.
  • Mastering new techniques: Every project brings unique challenges.
  • Building your portfolio: A diverse portfolio can open doors.
  • Networking opportunities: Collaborating with different clients and teams expands your connections.

The Hidden Costs

But here’s the catch: this lifestyle isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. The downsides are real, and they can creep up on you:

  • Shallow learning: You learn the basics, but rarely have time to dive deep.
  • Burnout risk: Physical and mental exhaustion is inevitable if you keep pushing for too long.
  • Declining work quality: Spreading yourself thin can lead to mistakes or lackluster results.
  • Sacrificed personal life: Long hours mean less time for family, friends, or even yourself.
  • Focus struggles: Constantly switching gears between projects drains your mental energy.
  • Missed opportunities for mastery: You risk becoming a jack of all trades, master of none.

At one point, I hit my limit. Exhaustion set in, and I realized I wasn’t performing at my best. I had to make a tough call: drop one of my side projects. Ironically, it was my highest-paying client. I promised to return in a month after clearing my plate. That “month” turned into six. Once I wrapped up my commitments, I hit pause, took a breather, and let myself enjoy the downtime.

What I Learned and How I Work Now

Today, I still seek out side projects, but with a major difference: I cap it at one project at a time. Experience remains my greatest teacher, and I never stop learning. Even when I’m between projects, I dive into personal initiatives—testing out new frameworks, exploring emerging techniques, and sharpening my skills.

Because in this industry, the moment you stop learning is the moment you stop growing.

Final Thoughts

Juggling multiple projects can be rewarding, but it comes with its share of risks. Know your limits, prioritize what matters, and make sure the grind doesn’t overshadow your well-being. Balance is key, and when done right, the hustle can propel you to new heights without burning you out.