11. November 2024
3 Minutes
Arineo Kollege Sascha Hoffmann

Successfully into the depths and back with new strength

After 10 years as a developer, Sascha Hoffmann wanted to try something new. He decided to take on a project manager role. At that time, Arineo was still in its infancy, and there was no external client project in which he could have contributed. So, he took responsibility for an internal sales demo project. And that suddenly meant project management and dev lead (dev = development) in one. Sascha Hoffmann shares why he is successfully working as a developer again and how his personal low played a part in it.

With the project manager role, I wanted to try something new.

I dove right in after agreeing to take on the project manager role. After a few meetings with colleagues, the requirements for the first step were clear, and I was ready to face the challenge. The project was time-critical, and the pressure was immense. Personally, the biggest challenge was not taking this pressure home with me. Looking back, I admit I couldn’t withstand the pressure. I completed the project successfully, but not as planned. And this experience – coupled with personal issues- led me into an emotional low, and I began to doubt myself.

At this low point, I withdrew.

I returned to my old job as a developer, but was no longer the same. My performance suffered, and my work simply became unacceptable, leading to a discussion between my contractual partner and a member of management. We discussed my future at Arineo and decided that I would present my ideas in a follow-up meeting. But I didn’t take it seriously enough, didn’t prepare anything, and the whole thing escalated.

The escalation meeting changed everything.

And although I ignored the preparation, I had the chance in that conversation to openly discuss what was truly weighing me down. The openness of my conversation partners deeply impressed me. They shared their own stories, their own low points. They showed me that I was not alone and that there is always a way forward if you are prepared to take it. And, of course, we also discussed what would happen if nothing changed.

Almost like a phoenix rising from the ashes.

The conversation was my wake-up call. It forced me to honestly reflect on my situation and actively work on my future. And so I began to pull myself out of my “hole” and look forward again. In our next meeting, I could clearly outline my vision for my personal and professional development.

In my role as a developer, I have blossomed once again.

Today, I support developers and dev leads and have rediscovered my passion for new technologies. I greatly enjoy getting to grips with the latest trends and tools, evaluating them, and discovering whether they could benefit Arineo. This process fills me with curiosity and drive.

Looking back, I am endlessly grateful that my colleagues at Arineo didn’t let me fall. They always had my back and did everything they could to support me – and I am deeply grateful to them for that.

My message to you?
Never forget: everyone is responsible for their own development, but you don't have to go it alone. If you feel that you want to reorient yourself professionally, talk to each other and find a new path together.

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