BSides Vancouver 2026

In tech, pushing hard is often part of the culture. Tight deadlines, constant change, and the pressure to keep up can make “running on fumes” feel normal. But when stress stops being temporary and starts feeling relentless, it may be more than just a busy season; it may be burnout.

This talk breaks down what burnout really is (and what it isn’t), in clear, practical terms. We’ll explore how to recognize the early signs, such as brain fog, loss of motivation, or feeling detached from your work. We’ll also look at why burnout happens in tech environments, including always-on expectations, blurred work-life boundaries, and sustained high-performance demands. The session will also focus on what to do about it.

Attendees will gain realistic strategies for protecting their energy, setting healthier boundaries, and building more sustainable ways of working, both individually and within teams. The goal is not just to manage stress, but to create conditions where people can continue doing meaningful work without burning out.