I think that some of our troubles comes from our nature. Most of sysadmins and IT pro's I know loves to solve problems and they feed on kudos. So this makes us throw ourselves against challenges in passion and if problem really ticks your brains you (in some masochistic way) you like to fight it to the bitter end.

I find problem solving and pushing and challenging my abilities really rewarding. But it also can engulf you and push you to set impossible or really stressful goals or milestones to yourself.

That might not be so bad if we could learn to let go - but at least I find myself sometimes pondering unsolved problems in bus, home or even in shower (ah - those showerthoughts...).

I have learned in my time (15 yrs. in IT) that it is Me that have responsibility to set boundaries - no one else will. And if I don't watch what is good for me (and my stress levels) - closest to me will get hurt (I get moody/cranky when stressed). Even if it requires saying No! to some really interesting project or assignment.

Work is work - even it's sometimes wonderfully challenging, rewarding and enjoyable and life is life (elämä on laiffii - Matti Nykänen).