I used to think that a side project was an absolute must in my life. I love to code as a hobby and for my job. And then my health started to dwindle and I was getting burnt out. I had no more motivation to do anything else in life, including coding. So, I totally agree with you that having a side project is not a requirement for success, nor is it a sole sign of passion. I read like hell in my free time about coding, it keeps my up to date and satisfy my interest. And most importantly, it doesn't burn me out.
I think the important thing about any side project is that it be personally enjoyable! I even went as far as creating The Cranky Developer Manifesto for that exact reason. Otherwise, as you said, you're at risk of burnout.
So if no side project is enjoyable, you won't benefit from having one anyway.
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I used to think that a side project was an absolute must in my life. I love to code as a hobby and for my job. And then my health started to dwindle and I was getting burnt out. I had no more motivation to do anything else in life, including coding. So, I totally agree with you that having a side project is not a requirement for success, nor is it a sole sign of passion. I read like hell in my free time about coding, it keeps my up to date and satisfy my interest. And most importantly, it doesn't burn me out.
I think the important thing about any side project is that it be personally enjoyable! I even went as far as creating The Cranky Developer Manifesto for that exact reason. Otherwise, as you said, you're at risk of burnout.
So if no side project is enjoyable, you won't benefit from having one anyway.