This definitely resonates with me a lot. I have been on both sides of the fence with regards to needing to be ripped away from my terminal to go do something else.
In addition to just energy and whether or not programming is a good fit for you, I think it really really helps to have passion, i.e. Drink the kool aid, work in something you want to use yourself or can't stop thinking about, or is uniquely challenging to you.
I don't know any developers that are excellent that got there by working a mundane/boring programming job. Having said that I also don't any who have not had to work at several of those before they find one that keeps them awake at night in an excited state.
If you aim to improve your skills and work isn't doing it for you, do some side projects or contribute to an open source project. You would be surprised how excitement and passion can beat sleep. Don't get too hooked on it though or you will never have a social life.
In addition to just energy and whether or not programming is a good fit for you, I think it really really helps to have passion, i.e. Drink the kool aid, work in something you want to use yourself or can't stop thinking about, or is uniquely challenging to you.
I don't know any developers that are excellent that got there by working a mundane/boring programming job. Having said that I also don't any who have not had to work at several of those before they find one that keeps them awake at night in an excited state.
If you aim to improve your skills and work isn't doing it for you, do some side projects or contribute to an open source project. You would be surprised how excitement and passion can beat sleep. Don't get too hooked on it though or you will never have a social life.