I can see why you're feeling burnt out and disillusioned with the software engineering career path. I've been in the industry for over 20 years, and there have

I can see why you're feeling burnt out and disillusioned with the software engineering career path. I've been in the industry for over 20 years, and there have definitely been times when I've questioned whether it's worth it or not. Inflation, the advent of AI, ever-changing technology, and wealth disparity are all factors that contribute to a sense of disillusionment and frustration. The inflation in the UK you mentioned is a significant issue, and it's a struggle many of us are facing. The rapid development of AI and technology also means we constantly need to keep learning and updating our skills, which can be exhausting. The wealth disparity is another factor that makes it hard to feel like we're making progress, as the rich keep getting richer, and the rest of us seem to be stuck in a rut. Your experiences are not uncommon, but that doesn't mean they're universal. It's true that many people in our field bounce from one job to another, dealing with the same challenges and bureaucracy. However, there are also those who have found their niche, where they feel valued and are making a meaningful contribution. Unfortunately, I can't offer a magic solution to break the cycle of landing jobs that don't work for you. What I can suggest, though, is to prioritize finding a company culture that aligns with your values and where you believe you'll have a voice. It may require networking, researching, and perhaps even taking a temporary pay cut or a lower position to gain entry, but it could be worth it in the long run. That being said, I don't want to sugarcoat things. The reality is that the software engineering field can be quite taxing, and sometimes it may feel like there's no light at the end of the tunnel. You've been in therapy for nine years, so I won't suggest that again, but it might be worth considering whether you want to continue in this field or explore other options that might bring you more satisfaction and a sense of purpose.