How can I balance my programming work and personal life without burnout?

It's great that you're recognizing the signs of burnout and wanting to make a change. Achieving a better work-life balance is definitely possible, and it's not just a myth. It might take some experimentation and discipline, but with the right strategies and mindset, you can prioritize your personal time and take care of yourself.

Firstly, let's talk about setting boundaries. You've already tried not checking work emails or taking work calls outside of work hours, which is a great start. To take it to the next level, you could try implementing a no work talk rule during dinner or when spending time with family and friends. This means no discussing work-related topics or checking work emails during these times. It might be challenging at first, but it'll help you disconnect from work and recharge.

Another strategy is to use technology to your advantage. You can use tools like RescueTime or Harvest to track how you spend your time, and identify areas where you can cut back on work hours. You can also set up automated responses on your email or messaging apps to let others know that you're not available during certain hours. This can help you avoid the feeling of being on call 24/7.

In terms of prioritizing your personal time, it's essential to schedule it in, just like you would any other important appointment. Whether it's exercise, reading, or spending time with loved ones, make sure to block out time for it in your calendar. You can also try to batch similar tasks together, such as checking and responding to all work emails at once, rather than constantly throughout the day.

Lastly, don't be too