You signed in with another tab or window. Reload to refresh your session.You signed out in another tab or window. Reload to refresh your session.You switched accounts on another tab or window. Reload to refresh your session.Dismiss alert
Copy file name to clipboardExpand all lines: _articles/preventing-burnout.md
+8-4Lines changed: 8 additions & 4 deletions
Display the source diff
Display the rich diff
Original file line number
Diff line number
Diff line change
@@ -11,6 +11,7 @@ Maintaining an open source project can be deeply rewarding, but it can also be e
11
11
## Understanding Maintainer Burnout
12
12
13
13
Burnout in open source maintenance typically manifests as:
14
+
14
15
- Emotional exhaustion from constant demands and support requests
15
16
- Cynicism or detachment from the project you once loved
16
17
- Reduced effectiveness or productivity despite increased effort
@@ -22,6 +23,7 @@ Many maintainers delay addressing these symptoms until they reach a crisis point
22
23
## Recognizing Early Warning Signs
23
24
24
25
Watch for these indicators before burnout becomes severe:
26
+
25
27
- Dreading opening your email or GitHub notifications
26
28
- Spending nights or weekends on maintenance when you didn't plan to
27
29
- Feeling irritable during interactions with contributors
@@ -31,7 +33,7 @@ Watch for these indicators before burnout becomes severe:
31
33
32
34
## Setting Sustainable Boundaries
33
35
34
-
Clear boundaries are essential for long-term maintenance:
36
+
Clear boundaries are essential for long-term maintenance.
35
37
36
38
**Define your working hours**: Establish specific times when you respond to issues and PRs. Communicate these clearly in your README or CONTRIBUTING.md.
37
39
@@ -45,7 +47,7 @@ Clear boundaries are essential for long-term maintenance:
45
47
46
48
## Delegating and Building a Team
47
49
48
-
You don't have to do everything alone:
50
+
You don't have to do everything alone.
49
51
50
52
-**Identify potential maintainers**: Look for consistent, high-quality contributors who understand your project's vision
51
53
-**Document your processes**: Write detailed guides on how you make decisions, merge criteria, and project direction
@@ -55,11 +57,11 @@ You don't have to do everything alone:
55
57
56
58
## Taking Care of Your Mental Health
57
59
58
-
Maintenance is a marathon, not a sprint:
60
+
Maintenance is a marathon, not a sprint.
59
61
60
62
-**Practice saying no**: You can't accept every feature request. Declining requests is not rude; it's necessary.
61
63
-**Celebrate wins**: Acknowledge releases, milestones, and community achievements
62
-
-**Connect with other maintainers**: Shared experiences help. Join maintainer communities like the Maintainers Slack or open source forums
64
+
-**Connect with other maintainers**: Shared experiences help. Join maintainer communities
63
65
-**Seek professional support if needed**: If stress becomes overwhelming, talking to a therapist or counselor is valid and helpful
64
66
-**Remember your "why"**: Periodically reflect on what made you start this project and what you want it to be
65
67
@@ -73,3 +75,5 @@ Maintenance is a marathon, not a sprint:
73
75
## Conclusion
74
76
75
77
Sustainable open source maintenance requires intentional boundary-setting, delegation, and self-care. By recognizing early warning signs and implementing preventative strategies, you can maintain your project and your wellbeing for years to come.
78
+
79
+
Remember: A burnt-out maintainer helps no one. Taking care of yourself is taking care of your project.
0 commit comments