I am a male in my mid-30s, and I just started a 1 month sabbatical from work and am facing burnout, depression, and general anxiety. I have a good career with full-time WFH, a loving family, and a wonderful 17 month old child, but I feel like I take them and my job for granted. I am extraordinarily lucky to have a good support system, but I still feel like something is missing.
I am looking for a book (or books) to give me a reality check some needed perspective on why my trivial tech job matters. Some background if it helps: I wanted to work on the ITER project in college or be on of those modern-explore-the-cosmos types but I am much too dumb for nuclear physics and born too soon (and wouldn’t be cut out ) for sci-fi-esque interstellar escapades. I want to do something that matters, but I am too risk averse being the sole provider for my family.
The book (or books) I am seeking should be thought provoking; I want to laugh, I want to cry, I want to appreciate everything I have and find that spark for innovation and growth that has been lost to the stresses of life and parenthood. I am open to any and all non-religious works. Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated, including fiction, non-fiction, and poetry.
by BringMeTheHammer
3 Comments
The Martian by Andy Wier?
The Brain that Changes Itself – Dr Norman Doidge. This is a popular, accessible science read with plenty of examples given about people who have overcome great odds to live fulfilling lives. As a new dad you may also find it interesting to learn about your child’s ongoing development and how to build their resilience.
Go easy on yourself! Becoming a parent and the heavy responsibility/change in identity is a lot to process. Enjoy your time away from the grind and I hope you find something that inspires you
I’m not entirely sure why, but Man’s Search for Meaning by Victor Frankl comes to mind.
You’re really lucky! But I also relate to the “is this it?” feeling.