Slowing Down

Heya guys,

As some of you may or may not know, this forum can be a lot sometimes, and recently, it seems especially so. I've been working on things for the forum pretty much all day every day for the past 6 months, and as much fun as it can be, I don't find myself enjoying things the same way as I used to anymore, from our day to day business, the interactions I have to the things I used to be very passionate about, and in some regards, maybe still am. Posts feel like they have become a chore, as have things such as work on improving the forum, which is done out in the open and behind the scenes at a nigh constant, or just the regular maintenance work that goes into this environment such as grading and other staff duties. Whenever I look at any of my to-do lists or the things that are still waiting to be done, I am anything but excited, and whenever we change some things, in ways which we sincerely believe to be for the better, I might add, there always seem to be displeased voices that retaliate. I'm obviously not blaming people for that, everyone retains their right to an opinion and view on this community and site as a whole if they are part of it, but I want to name it as a contributing factor.

In essence, I believe that I really need something tangible that allows me not to stress and feel like I need to work on everything, all at once, at all times, and take breaks in between without feeling bad about it. I'll probably be around less and focus on things outside of the forum, like playing games every once in a while or finally getting my career started. I'll still try to do my best in regards to staff work, grading, and any other admin duties (which I'll still always be available for), but don't expect quick posts, or any posts at all if I don't feel like it.

At current, I don't know what this break will entail, but just to be safe I'll go with the full three months I can take. If anything changes and I somehow find my spark again, I'll post in here.

This applies to @Aspen @Cassius and @Shen Kadokawa as well.

Being staff, especially an admin, on any site is tireless and thankless work. That goes doubly for this site, since staff is so heavily involved in every step of the process. It's totally understandable that you've gotten pretty burned out. I'm sorry that there are people who are making that harder on you.

Do what you need to do, and don't let anyone make you feel any guilt over choosing self care (with work, video games, etc) over staff work and being here. Love you!

So yah, finally found a job, which took most of the stress I had to deal with off my shoulders. I'll be making a slow return to full capacity over the coming weeks (before slowing down again in September, when my training starts). Until then, though, hiatus is officially over.

Take your time! If anyone deserves the break, it’s you, Joh <3

Yay. Don't forget to pace yourself, man. Burnout is a drag.

COngratz on ur new job, m8! And enjoy your break; you deserve it <3

Congrats on your new job, Joh.
Take care of yourself.