I find timeboxing work to do the most important tasks super productive. Something like a 1.5 hour block in the morning, and one in the noon to get the most high priority stuff done for the day. That gives me permission to turn off my computer at 5pm and go relax, play video games, etc.

Also putting an interrupt with exercise at 5pm! Just 20 minutes of a decently intense workout is so important for your mental health! Personally, I would go beyond that and join a gym (like martial arts). Puts a great hard stop to your work day and it's also a great way to network outside of work!

Mid-Level Software Engineer at Bloomberg LP

Song Chen

Senior to staff (L5 -> L6 by FAANG leveling) is where 95%+ of engineers hit a growth wall. While junior to senior is fairly foundational, this all changes at staff where you need make big mindset changes to maximize impact.