[greenyoda]

I'd agree with this assessment. I went from being a developer to being a manager for several years, then went back to being a developer because it was burning me out (and what I really enjoyed was being a developer).

Other things I'd add:

Sitting in lots of meetings - not so good.

Having to shield your staff from bureaucratic bullshit so they can get their work done - not so good.

Being responsible for the work output of an entire team of people, not just yourself - stressful.

[atdt]

If you don't mind me asking, did you go back to being a developer by changing your workplace, or were you able to transition back within the same organization?

[greenyoda]

I stayed at the same company, taking over the job of a developer who had left.