The grief, loneliness, and burnout sweeping through the tech industry right now | from Lenny's Podcast

The "give away your Legos" career advice—which emphasizes delegating responsibilities to foster growth—requires significant re-evaluation in the era of artificial intelligence. While the core principle of embracing change remains vital, delegating tasks to AI differs fundamentally from delegating to humans; AI requires constant oversight, creating a persistent mental tax rather than true liberation. Professionals are currently navigating a "storming" phase characterized by burnout, grief over lost roles, and the pressure to adopt AI-driven productivity. Success in this landscape demands shifting from a mindset of protecting established knowledge to one of continuous learning and entrepreneurial adaptation. Rather than viewing AI as a replacement, treat it as a junior intern requiring coaching and context. Ultimately, the most valuable skill is discerning which tasks to automate and which to retain, ensuring that human judgment and vision remain at the center of work.