'AI fatigue is real and nobody talks about it': A software engineer warns there's a mental cost to AI productivity gains

A growing concern among software engineers is the mental toll associated with the rise of AI productivity tools. Siddhant Khare, a software engineer at ONA, has voiced his struggles in a candid essay titled "AI fatigue is real and nobody talks about it." While AI tools have undeniably boosted his output, he feels the demands of his job have intensified, leading to a profound sense of exhaustion. Khare likens his current role to that of a reviewer rather than a creator. "Every day feels like I’m judging an endless assembly line of code," he remarked, indicating that the once-focused task of programming has shifted to a cycle of constant oversight. Despite shipping more code than ever, he notes a paradox: increased productivity comes at the cost of mental fatigue, as the time spent coordinating and reviewing work has surged. His daily routine has transformed drastically, now involving frequent context-switching between multiple tasks. "Each issue may only take an hour with AI, but jumping between six different problems strains my mental resources," he explained. This relentless pace leaves him feeling drained, contrasting sharply with the deep focus he once enjoyed while coding. Khare's sentiments resonate with many in the tech community, as discussions on platforms like X and Hacker News reveal shared experiences of burnout. One user humorously described their new routine as the "Claude Code workout plan," incorporating physical activity to combat the sedentary nature of coding. Others express frustration at the constant interruptions that hinder their concentration, noting that the thrill of AI assistance often leads to distraction rather than efficiency. A recent study published by the Harvard Business Review adds weight to Khare's observations, revealing that AI tools may not lessen workloads but can actually exacerbate them. The report found that employees often feel overwhelmed by the increased demands placed upon them, leading to cognitive fatigue and decision-making difficulties. Additionally, Khare highlighted the pressure to stay updated with the latest advancements from AI companies, which can feel overwhelming. The constant influx of new tools and updates fosters a fear of missing out, compelling engineers to dedicate time outside of work to keep pace with industry changes. "I found myself evaluating tools on weekends, trying to stay ahead of the curve," he admitted. Khare also expressed concern about the implications of relying heavily on AI. He fears that his foundational coding skills may atrophy, similar to how reliance on GPS has diminished our internal navigation abilities. "Without regular practice, we lose our ability to think critically and solve problems independently," he cautioned. In response to his challenges, Khare has begun implementing personal boundaries around his use of AI tools. He acknowledges the need for self-regulation, suggesting that both individuals and AI companies must take proactive steps to prevent over-reliance on technology. He likens the addictive nature of AI interactions to gaming, advocating for safeguards that help users maintain a healthy balance in their work. Khare's insights serve as a crucial reminder of the importance of sustainable practices in the age of AI, emphasizing the need for a more mindful approach to technology in the workplace.