The author of this content is pondering the nature of operations work and how people thrive and grow in this role without being consumed by the systems they support. They observe that the skills that make someone effective in operations often come from experiences outside of technology, such as navigating unstable situations. These skills are highly valued and in demand, but they come at a cost to the individual. There is a constant struggle between the desire for stability and the demands of the job, which can lead to burnout. The author questions the connection between the systems we maintain and our own selves, and wonders if there is a way to perform this work without burning out. Self-introspection is difficult, and the author admits to not having all the answers. They acknowledge the input and insights of others in shaping this content.
https://pcable.net/posts/2020-02-29-heaviness-of-systems/