Twin Anxieties of the Engineer/Manager Pendulum

Overview
The post discusses the psychological tension that engineers experience when they step into management and the reverse anxiety managers feel when returning to hands-on engineering. It highlights why the swing between these roles feels destabilizing and provides practical advice for maintaining confidence and effectiveness in either position.

Key Takeaways

• Recognize the specific fears that arise when shifting between engineering and management.
• Build habits that keep technical credibility while developing leadership skills.
• Use deliberate reflection to stabilize the \"pendulum\" and make intentional career moves.

Who Would Benefit

• Software engineers considering a move into management.
• Engineering managers who want to stay technically relevant.
• Technical leaders navigating role changes or hybrid responsibilities.

Frameworks and Methodologies

• None